Saquon Barkley, the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, had an impressive rookie season with the New York Giants, becoming a fan favorite. However, contract negotiations between Barkley’s representatives and the Giants front office were unsuccessful, leading him to enter free agency for the first time in his career. Barkley signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, a move that will likely change his status with Giants fans when he returns to MetLife Stadium for the first time as an Eagle. Despite this, Barkley does not expect a negative reaction from the fans and believes that the rivalry between the Eagles and Giants will continue regardless of his presence on either team.
Barkley expressed that any lingering emotions surrounding his departure from the Giants have largely subsided and that he is focused on moving forward with his new team. He has already visualized scoring a touchdown in his return to MetLife Stadium, showing his determination to perform well in the game. The Giants’ handling of Barkley’s contract situation was highlighted in HBO’s “Hard Knocks,” with Giants co-owner and CEO John Mara expressing concerns about Barkley joining a division rival like the Eagles. Despite this, Barkley maintains a positive relationship with his former teammates and has no ill feelings toward the Giants organization.
Barkley still keeps in touch with some of his former teammates and maintains friendships with players on the Giants roster. Giants quarterback Daniel Jones admitted that seeing Barkley in an Eagles uniform for the first time was a bit jarring, as they were used to being on the field together in Giants colors. However, both players have moved on from the situation and are focused on their respective careers with their new teams. The Giants and Eagles are slated to face off in a highly anticipated game at MetLife Stadium on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.
Despite the change in teams, Barkley remains focused on his performance on the field and does not anticipate any negative reactions from Giants fans during his return to MetLife Stadium as an Eagle. He acknowledges the history and intensity of the rivalry between the Eagles and Giants, recognizing that his presence on either team does not diminish the significance of the matchup. Barkley’s visualization of scoring a touchdown reflects his determination to succeed in the game and prove himself as a valuable asset to the Eagles.
While Barkley’s departure from the Giants was documented on HBO’s “Hard Knocks,” he maintains positive relationships with his former teammates and has moved on from any lingering emotions. The Giants’ handling of Barkley’s contract negotiations may have been a point of contention, but Barkley holds no grudges and remains focused on performing to the best of his abilities with the Eagles. As the game approaches, Barkley’s anticipation for the matchup against his former team grows, with both teams eager to come out on top in a highly competitive divisional showdown.
