Saquon Barkley Calls Philadelphia "Biggest Blessing" in Fresh Start with Eagles

Newly acquired Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is embracing his fresh start in the City of Brotherly Love, expressing his excitement and gratitude during a recent interview with the “94WIP Morning Show.”

“It has definitely been a fresh start for me, that’s probably been the biggest blessing,” Barkley said Thursday. The former New York Giant praised the Eagles organization, from the coaching staff to the passionate fan base, noting the stark contrast to his previous NFL home.

Barkley highlighted the team’s recent open practice, which drew an impressive crowd of around 50,000 fans. “I don’t truly know if other places are doing something like that,” he said. The running back also shared a lighthearted anecdote about encountering enthusiastic Eagles fans even during a quiet round of golf, with “Go Birds!” chants following his shots.

The change of scenery has had a profound impact not just on Barkley, but on his family as well. “My family can see a difference in me even at home,” he revealed, underscoring the positive influence of his move to Philadelphia.

When asked about his appearance on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” series with the Giants, Barkley offered a diplomatic response. He acknowledged the show’s ability to provide fans with unique behind-the-scenes access but also hinted at the disconnect between his actual involvement in contract negotiations and how it was portrayed on screen.

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“TV magic made it seem like—you would have felt like I was so a part of that whole negotiating process,” Barkley explained. “In reality, I probably only spoke once or twice with them.” He further elaborated on the lack of communication from the Giants’ front office leading up to free agency, suggesting that their inaction aligned with his expectations.

As the Eagles prepare for their season opener against the Green Bay Packers in Brazil, Barkley left Eagles fans with a heartfelt message: “I just want the city and the fan base to know, you’re going to get a guy who loves ball and is going to give his all every single day.” With Barkley’s enthusiasm for his new team and the city of Philadelphia, Eagles fans are excited about the impact he could make in the upcoming season.