No Bad Blood: Eagles' Barkley Encouraging Giants' Jones

The New York Giants didn’t have the Week 1 anyone wanted. From underwhelming during an anniversary celebration to drawing the public sympathy of their opponent, it was an embarrassing outing altogether.

And nobody had it worse than quarterback Daniel Jones.

Jones was the face of New York’s struggles – a 28-6 drubbing – and took the heat of the fan base, the internet, and everyone in between.

But an unlikely suspect lent him a hand.

Friend and former teammate, Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, told reporters that he reached out to Jones after the loss.

“I talked to him. I’m really good friends with DJ,” Barkley said . “Obviously, didn’t have the game that he wanted. From me, was just letting him know that – just go out there and play free.”

Jones completed 22 of 42 passes for 186 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions – one of which was returned for six. At times, he looked panicky, rushed, and shattered. Others’ confidence in his game seems to be at an all-time low, and with pressure mounting, the calls for backup Drew Lock have grown louder.

New York’s Week 1 has its cellar-bound. But that’s not what Barkley will be rooting for.

Related: Barkley Wins Award in First Game Away From Giants

“I was there for six years,” Barkley said. “Got a lot of friends there, so no bad feelings for those guys,” Barkley said. “Hopefully, they’re able to bounce back.”

The Giants will play the Eagles in Week 17 and Week 18. For now, they’ll focus on beating the Washington Commanders in Week 2.