Star running back Saquon Barkley had one major regret for how everything went down with his free agency. No, it wasn't the fact that he signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, a top rival for the NY Giants.
The regret was how he handled his exit from East Rutherford. While speaking to the media at his intro Eagles press conference, Barkley admitted that Giants fans deserved a better farewell message than the one he sent shortly before his new deal was announced. Barkley has since decided to give things another try, posting a passionate goodbye to Big Blue supporters everywhere:
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) March 15, 2024
Saquon Barkley thanked Giants fans for the support over the past six years
"The last three days have been a whirlwind of emotions, but I wanted to take a minute and acknowledge all the Giant fans that have supported me and my family over the last six years. When I was drafted here I wanted my impact off the field to rival the accomplishments on it, and I can only hope that I came close to doing that. I'm forever grateful to the Mara and Tisch family and the wonderful people working in the Giants organization. The fans in New York and New Jersey will forever hold a place in my heart. Ultimately, the NFL is a business, and I hope that everyone can respect my decision."Saquon Barkley
This was a much better and longer statement from Barkley than the first time around. His original post was barely over 20 words and Giants Nation as a whole felt like he was just trying to say see ya later in the quickest way possible. Barkley admitted he made a mistake and he's now trying to clear things up:
Thank you to everyone who has shown me love and support over the past 6 years… forever grateful! Excited for the next chapter 💙✌🏾
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) March 11, 2024
Barkley reportedly had offers on the table from the Bears and Texans, but Philly came in with the most dough, including $26 million guaranteed. With the Giants and Joe Schoen not making him another offer, it was clear that he was going to suit up for a different team in 2024.
The thing here is that people hate the fact that it has to be the Eagles. At his presser, seeing Barkley in an Eagles hoodie felt strange. He looks much better in blue than green if you ask us, but hey, his decision has been made.
It's going to be tough to root for Barkley now that he's in Philly, but we respect him trying to make this situation right with the people who bought his jersey and cheered their heads off for him over the past six seasons.