Saquon Barkley gushes over his fresh start as an Eagle, says he’s playing more freely than ever before

It’s safe to say Saquon Barkley loves being a Philadelphia Eagles. The standout running back is making the most of his multi-year deal, playing more freely than he has in years.

Saquon Barkley sat down with CBS’ Nate Burleson to talk about his fresh start in Philly:

What can I say… It’s a Philly Thing 🦅 pic.twitter.com/hpSBn2i8Mv

— The Philly Special (@thePHIspecial) November 10, 2024

Saquon Barkley got the money he deserved, and the investment is already paying off for the Eagles. Honestly, just shy of $13 million a year feels like a massive underpay, considering his electric start to the season.

The sitdown used his unreal backward hurdle as the focal point, but that play was just a byproduct of his newfound situation. Obviously, it’s more a direct result of his immense talent and athleticism. Still, he basically said he wouldn’t try something like that as a Giant because he didn’t have the same level of security.

Yes, the money helps, but being surrounded by elite talent and a class organization also takes the weight off his shoulders. That’s not to say he takes that as a signal to slack off; it’s quite the opposite.

That level of comfort, knowing he doesn’t have to carry the team every week, allows him to play freely. In turn, he’s playing some of the best football of his career, trailing only Derrick Henry in rushing yards this season.

If you really think about it, this is the first time he’s played meaningful for a legitimate contender since he entered the league. I guess you can technically count his days at Penn State since it’s a big-name program, but that’s a debate for a different time.

Just look at how happy Saquon Barkley is in that interview. I’m no New York media buff, but I don’t think he ever looked like this while he was a member of the Giants.

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