It's hard to believe that we now have to call Saquon Barkley a former NY Giants running back. After six years with the team, the former No. 2 overall pick has packed his bags and left town. We could not hate the team he'll be suiting up for more, though.
In heartbreaking fashion, Barkley signed with enemy No. 1, deciding to join the Philadelphia Eagles on a deal that will bring him home $26 million guaranteed. About 30 seconds before the news broke, Barkley posted what looked to be a half-hearted goodbye to the Big Blue faithful. While speaking to the media during his first Philly presser, even he knew he made a sizable mistake there:
Saquon Barkley addresses Giants fans:
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) March 14, 2024
"I got nothing but love and respect. I don't think I handled it the right way on social media, I could've given a proper goodbye...I'm forever grateful for the Giants fans." pic.twitter.com/V1XI5QeQTL
Saquon Barkley has sent a new message to Giants fans after signing with the Eagles
"I don’t think I really handled it the right way on social media. I think I could’ve gave a proper goodbye. Once I announced, things kind of got hectic. I’m forever grateful for Giants fans, but unfortunately the NFL is a business. I was fortunate to come to a place I know I can compete and I can win and I can stay close to home."Saquon Barkley
Barkley went through a ton of adversity with the Giants, including multiple ankle issues and his torn ACL. Despite that, he was a two-time Pro Bowler and helped the Giants reach the playoffs in 2022. Having said that, the initial farewell message he sent indeed wasn't good enough.
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
A little more than 20 words was all that Barkley had for Giants Nation? We won't lie, we were pretty darn upset with the post above from Barkley, who was adored all over New York and New Jersey ever since he made his way to the league in 2018.
Barkley is hoping Giants fans can forgive him for his weak post on Day 1 of free agency. Hey, we'll go ahead and do so. However, he shouldn't expect anyone to forgive him for joining NY's biggest rival, that's for sure.