In what is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about seasons in the NFL, Saquon Barkley is making waves in his debut year with the Philadelphia Eagles. The star running back is rewriting the narrative of his career after a noteworthy switch from the New York Giants. Barkley's impressive performance, characterized by an average of 6.2 yards per carry, has stunned fans and analysts alike. His current pace could see him shatter long-standing records, boasting projections of 2,151 rushing yards and an astonishing 2,548 yards from scrimmage this season.
On the Verge of History
Barkley’s season has put him in close contention with some of the NFL's most revered records. Eric Dickerson’s legendary single-season rushing mark of 2,105 yards, set in 1984, might finally be in jeopardy. Additionally, Chris Johnson’s 2009 record of 2,509 scrimmage yards is under significant threat. Barkley's Week 11 performance against the Los Angeles Rams, where he amassed 255 rushing yards and 302 scrimmage yards, only adds to the belief that these records are within reach.
The Unseen Guardians
One cannot discuss Barkley's success without mentioning the Eagles' formidable offensive line. Ranked third by Pro Football Focus, this unit has been pivotal in providing Barkley the lanes and protection required to navigate opposing defenses. This cohesive effort contrasts sharply with his time at the Giants, with sources close to the situation noting, "It's safe to say that Barkley wouldn't be duplicating his performance if he had remained with the Giants."
A Controversial Departure
Saquon Barkley's transition from the Giants to the Eagles was not without its controversies. The Giants initially proposed a contract offering of three years at $11 million annually, which Barkley declined. Instead, he accepted a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Eagles, potentially earning up to $46.75 million through incentives. Notably, this deal includes $26 million in guarantees, with $24.5 million fully guaranteed at signing.
The move left a bitter taste for some in the Giants' hierarchy. John Mara, the Giants co-owner, famously remarked, "I'll have a tough time sleeping if Saquon goes to Philadelphia." The sentiment reflects a broader frustration, with another source noting, "I know from my agent days just how frustrating and insulting an approach like the Giants took can be to a client."
Financial Gamble
While Barkley flourishes in Philadelphia, his former teammate Daniel Jones remains a cornerstone in New York, having secured a four-year, $160 million contract. Giants fans can only speculate how different their season might have been had management retained Barkley. "Mara probably regrets that he didn't intervene and mandate Barkley's re-signing given how the 2024 season is unfolding," suggests another observer close to the franchise.
The Road Ahead
As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Saquon Barkley. If he keeps up his current form, not only could he surpass historic benchmarks, but he might also rekindle the possibility of a running back winning the MVP award—a feat last accomplished by Adrian Peterson in 2012. Barkley's journey with the Eagles appears to be a match made in football heaven, a saga of redemption and triumph that fans will talk about for years to come.