Saquon Barkley reveals how Giants negotiation went downhill before $37,750,000 Eagles move: “It was over after that phone call”
After six great seasons with the New York Giants, Saquon Barkley signed a three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason. His move to a division rival shocked many and has left a bitter feeling in fans toward him.
In a recent conversation with Dianna Russini, Barkley explained that the phone call with Giants general manager Joe Schoen was the breaking point of his relationship with the franchise. During that phone call, Schoen asked the running back to test the market, and Barkley ultimately decided to sign with the Eagles. Saquon Barkley said:
“It was over after that phone call, in my opinion. I never, in my heart, truly believed that they were going to match it. Or they only wanted me for a lower price. No matter what, I was probably wasn’t going to go back.”
Schoen did ask Barkley to give the Giants a "chance" to match whatever contract value he likes from other teams, but based on reports, it doesn't seem like Schoen got that chance to make an offer.
Giants owner John Mara was visibly upset in HBO's "Hard Knocks" after Barkley left for Philadelphia. He loved the player, and it will be difficult for the franchise to be successful without him.
As for Saquon Barkley, he now finds himself on a better team that will help him succeed while getting paid $26 million in guaranteed money as part of his new deal.
Saquon Barkley makes the Eagles a legit Super Bowl contender
With Saquon Barkley's arrival, the Philadelphia Eagles are a serious contender to win the Super Bowl. Many believe that the 27-year-old running back could have a Christian McCaffrey-esque impact on the Eagles, and it will ease the pressure on Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown.
The Eagles had a great offseason and are the favorites in the NFC East division. Although the San Francisco 49ers are seen as the firm favorites to win the NFC, Barkley's team has a great shot at taking them down.
The Eagles and the 49ers have had a great rivalry over the past two seasons, and this year, we might see them going against each other in the NFC Championship Game. However, the key is health for both teams, and Barkley will hope that he gets rid of the injury bug like McCaffrey did when he left the Carolina Panthers.
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