From Giants’ Darling to Philly Fella: Barkley’s Journey After NFL Free Agency
Saquon Barkley’s transition from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles has been an eventful journey, marked by unresolved emotions and social media battles.
A Billionaire Exit
The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Barkley was once hailed as the future of the Giants franchise. However, after six seasons in New York, the team declined to extend his contract, sending him into free agency.
Barkley had often expressed his desire to remain a lifelong Giant, leaving many fans disappointed by his departure. However, it’s worth noting that the Giants did not offer Barkley a contract and could have retained him using the franchise tag.
Crossing the Bridge to Philly
In March 2024, Barkley inked a three-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, much to the chagrin of some Giants fans. The Eagles reportedly offered Barkley a more lucrative contract than the Giants were willing to match.
Barkley’s move to Philadelphia has sparked debate among football enthusiasts, with some criticizing his decision to leave the Giants while others defended his right to pursue a better offer.
NYC Aftermath: Barkley Booed, Responds on X
Barkley’s first encounter with New Yorkers after joining the Eagles came at Game 6 between the 76ers and Knicks at Wells Fargo Center. Despite the Sixers’ owners distributing 2,000 tickets to first responders and community groups, Knicks and Giants fans alike made their presence known and showered Barkley with faint boos.
Barkley expressed surprise at the animosity, posting on X shortly after the game, “It’s been two months… lol no way ya can still be this mad!” He defended his decision to join the Eagles, claiming he never received an offer to return to the Giants.
Social Media Sparring
Barkley has not been shy about using social media to respond to his critics. When former Giants running back Tiki Barber labeled Barkley as “dead” to him, Barkley fired back, accusing Barber of being a “hater” and pointing out his lack of loyalty to the Giants organization.
Looking Forward, Apologizing for the Past
Barkley later apologized for his public critiques upon leaving the Giants, saying he “misspoke.”
Despite the loss by the Sixers to the Knicks, Barkley remains optimistic about his new team, stating that the game “got me geeked for home games at the linc.”
A Lesson in Fandom and Loyalty
Barkley’s journey is a reminder that sports fandom can be both intense and irrational. While it’s understandable for fans to feel betrayed when a beloved player leaves their team, it’s important to remember that athletes are entitled to make decisions that are best for themselves and their careers.
