Barkley Thrilled to Bring Explosiveness to Eagles, Near Old Stomping Grounds

After leaving the New York Giants for the Philadelphia Eagles, star running back Saquon Barkley is eager to prove his former team wrong and showcase his explosive abilities close to home.

Saquon Barkley's journey from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles has been marked by mixed emotions. While the move brings him closer to his original home, it also fuels his determination to silence those who doubted his worth.

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has heaped praise upon Barkley, calling him "explosive." Hurts believes Barkley's proximity to his former surroundings will add motivation to his already impressive skill set.

"I'm excited to see him build into the role he'll play for us, and I know he's excited to be here [and] be in this division [NFC East]," Hurts said about Barkley on NFL Network.

Barkley's addition to the Eagles comes at a crucial time, as they seek to replace outgoing running back D'Andre Swift. Barkley's three-year, $37.8 million deal signals the Eagles' confidence in his abilities.

Unveiled on HBO's "Hard Knocks: Offseason With the New York Giants," Giants general manager Joe Schoen's reluctance to match the Eagles' offer to Barkley highlighted their differing valuations of the running back's potential.

Despite missing three games last season due to an ankle injury, Barkley managed to rush for 962 yards and six touchdowns on 3.9 yards per carry. His versatility extends to the receiving game, with 41 catches for 280 yards and four touchdowns.

Barkley's injury history has limited him to just two full seasons out of his six-year NFL career. However, he earned Pro Bowl honors in each of those healthy seasons (2018 and 2022).

Barkley joins linebacker Devin White and defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson as key offseason additions for Philadelphia. The Eagles hope Barkley's explosiveness will compensate for Swift's departure.

As for Hurts, the fifth-year signal-caller is coming off a season with impressive passing and rushing statistics. He accumulated 3,858 passing yards, 23 passing touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, while also rushing for 605 yards and 15 touchdowns.

Despite starting the 2023 season with a promising 10-1 record, the Eagles ultimately crashed in the NFC wild-card round against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They will look to rebound this season with Barkley's added presence.

In contrast, the Giants have acquired running back Devin Singletary to replace Barkley. Their primary cap space has been allocated to the acquisition and extension of linebacker and two-time Pro Bowler Brian Burns.

Barkley's return to the NFC East will undoubtedly generate buzz and add extra spice to the rivalry between the Giants and Eagles. The former Penn State standout is eager to prove that he is worth the hefty investment Philadelphia made in him.