Saquon Barkley spent his first seven seasons in the NFL making a name for himself on the Giants. However, in the 2024 offseason, Barkley decided he needed a change of scenery with their division rival. The running back signed a three-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, and he will be returning to the place he called home for seven years on Sunday. What can we expect from Barkley this week? Here’s everything to know.
How Will Saquon Barkley Perform In His Return To MetLife?
Barkley Expecting a Neutral Reaction From Fans
Barkley was asked in an ESPN interview what he expected the reception from Giants fans to be when he returns to the Meadowlands on Sunday. The running back seems to believe that things won’t become very hostile in East Rutherford.
“I don’t expect a great reaction. I don’t expect to be booed,” Barkley said. “Maybe I’m naive, but I think it’s over. That chapter’s closed. I truly don’t care no more, and I’m pretty sure fans don’t care no more.”
It will be interesting to see in the fans at MetLife Stadium honor these sentiments. It’s always difficult when a star the caliber of Barkley departs from an NFL roster. However, going to a division rival can be viewed by a fanbase as a betrayal of their trust and may lead to him becoming an enemy of the Giants.
Ultimately though, it doesn’t seem the decision to leave was entirely Barkley’s. The Giants front office expressed hesitancy when it came to signing Barkley to a long-term deal. This hesitancy was what allowed rivals like the Eagles to swoop in and offer Barkley the desired deal he was looking for.
An Incredible Start to the Season
When it comes to discussing the top running backs in the league this year, the name Saquon Barkley is arguably at the top of the list. He is in the top 10 for multiple rushing stats this year. He is fourth in the league in rushing yards with 482. Barkley is also eighth in the league in rushing touchdowns with four and seventh in the league in carries with 91. The running back has also been enjoying the luxury of finally having a top-tier offensive line this season with the Birds. He has averaged a career-best 5.3 yards per carry running behind their offensive line.
Barkley will certainly look to make a statement against his former team on Sunday. This could also serve as an important performance to pick up a win as a team. Despite the talent on the offensive side of the ball, the Eagle’s offense has been frustrating to watch all season. A dominating win against the Giants could be exactly what they need to steer the ship back on track if they can get the job done.
Main Photo: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
