Saquon Barkley’s Revelation: Eagles Weren’t Initial Priority in Free Agency

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In a recent episode of the “New Heights” podcast, Saquon Barkley, the newly signed running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, revealed that he had contemplated the possibility of teaming up with C.J. Stroud, the quarterback for the Houston Texans, before ultimately deciding to join the NFC East team.

“Houston was the team that initially caught my attention,” Barkley shared with retired Eagles center Jason Kelce and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, as reported by Matt Ehalt of the New York Post. “I had the opportunity to connect with C.J. and a few of his teammates, back when negotiations were still allowed and teams were open to discussing offers.”

Barkley Chooses Eagles over Texans in Free Agency

Saquon-Barkley's-Revelation:-Eagles-Weren't-Initial-Priority-in-Free-Agency
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – FEBRUARY 18: Saquon Barkley (26) of the New York Giants is on the step and repeat prior to the game between the New York Rangers and the New York Islanders at MetLife Stadium on February 18, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Barkley was frequently associated with the Texans during the winter following their successful claim of the AFC South division title and their impressive 45-14 wild-card playoff victory against the Cleveland Browns. 

It was believed that Houston had the potential to meet Barkley’s desired price, mainly due to the presence of talented players like Stroud, Nico Collins, and Tank Dell who are currently under affordable contracts.

However, news broke early during the NFL’s legal tampering period of free agency that Barkley has agreed to a three-year, $37.75M contract to switch teams from the New York Giants to the Eagles. 

The former Penn State star shared on the podcast that he received offers from four teams before ultimately reaching an agreement with Philadelphia. The Giants were not one of those clubs.

Barkley Picks Eagles: Playoff Promise Over Giants

Barkley expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Eagles, citing their consistent playoff appearances over the past three seasons and their Super Bowl appearance two years ago as major factors in his decision. 

He also commended his agent for successfully securing a contract that the Giants were not offering to any running back this offseason.

“When I had my offers in place, I was thinking about what would be the best fit for me.” Where can I go to maximize my chances of winning? Barkley commented. “After considering all the factors, it seemed logical to be in Philadelphia.”

Only time will reveal whether Barkley will come to regret not embracing a new beginning in Texas instead of Philadelphia.

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