Saquon Barkley, the 2018 No. 2 overall pick who spent six seasons with the New York Giants, recently signed a three-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. This move caused some backlash from Giants fans, as Barkley had previously expressed his desire to be a lifelong Giant. Despite this, he was not offered a contract by the Giants and was released instead. Barkley took in a basketball game between the 76ers and Knicks at Wells Fargo Center with his new teammate A.J. Brown, and was booed by Knicks fans in attendance, much to his surprise.
Following the game, Barkley took to social media to address the booing he received from New Yorkers and Giants fans. He expressed disbelief that fans could still be so upset two months after his departure from the Giants. When one user accused him of “bailing” and needing to “reap the whirlwind,” Barkley defended his decision to sign with the Eagles, explaining that he went to the organization he felt was the best fit for him. He emphasized that he was excited to be an Eagle and was looking forward to playing for them.
In response to criticism from former Giants player Tiki Barber, who said Barkley was “dead” to him, Barkley fired back on social media. He defended his decision to sign with the Eagles by pointing out that he secured a deal with more guaranteed money, something that was not offered to him by the Giants. Barkley emphasized that he never turned his back on his teammates and always had their best interests in mind. Despite some negative reactions from fans, Barkley stood by his decision and expressed excitement for his future with the Eagles.
Even though the Sixers lost the game, Barkley stated that it got him excited for home games at Lincoln Financial Field. He seems eager to embrace his new role with the Eagles and is looking forward to contributing to the team’s success. Barkley also acknowledged that he had played the villain upon his departure from the Giants and offered an apology for any hurt feelings that may have resulted from his decision to sign with the Eagles. Despite the backlash, Barkley remains focused on the future and is determined to make the most of his opportunity with his new team.
Overall, Saquon Barkley’s transition from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles has not been without some controversy and backlash from fans. However, Barkley has remained steadfast in his decision to sign with the Eagles, citing factors such as securing more guaranteed money and feeling that the organization was the best fit for him. He has faced criticism from former players and fans alike, but has defended his actions and expressed excitement for his future with the Eagles. Despite the challenges, Barkley is eager to embrace his new role and contribute to his new team’s success.
