Should the Philadelphia Eagles consider adding Saquon Barkley to their roster? Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages.
Philadelphia Eagles, as they enter NFL free agency, face numerous gaps in their roster that need addressing. One notable area is the running back position, where two key players from 2023, D’Andre Swift and Boston Scott, will become free agents once the new league year kicks off on Wednesday, March 13.
Recent rumors have linked the Eagles to New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, the top player in a competitive free agency class featuring talents like Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, and others. Allegedly, there is mutual interest between the Eagles and Barkley.
However, the question arises: Would it be a sensible move for the Eagles to potentially offer Barkley the substantial contract he desires? Historically, General Manager Howie Roseman hasn’t allocated significant funds to running backs, but with increased cap space, this stance could change.
Barkley, a native of the Lehigh Valley who played football at Whitehall High School before excelling at Penn State University, could find Philadelphia closer to home.
But is signing Barkley a prudent decision for the Eagles? Let’s evaluate the advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
Adding Barkley would introduce one of the league’s top players and most skilled running backs to the Eagles’ roster. Aged 27, Barkley is a versatile three-down back capable of running between the tackles and posing a threat as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. In 14 games last season, he amassed 962 rushing yards and 41 receptions for 280 yards, scoring a total of 10 touchdowns. Since entering the league in 2018, Barkley ranks top five among running backs in both receiving yards (2,100) and receptions (288). His arrival would significantly enhance the Eagles’ running game, making him their most potent running back since LeSean McCoy.
Teaming Barkley with quarterback Jalen Hurts would present a formidable challenge for opposing teams. Despite uncertainties surrounding Hurts’s fitness and the team’s offensive performance last year, Barkley’s addition could inject fresh energy into the Eagles’ running game.
Playing behind one of the NFL’s best offensive lines, even with Jason Kelce retired, Barkley would experience a level of support he lacked in New York.
Cons:
Signing Barkley to a lucrative and possibly long-term contract may not be financially prudent in today’s NFL. While talented, the Eagles could explore more cost-effective options in free agency or the NFL draft to achieve similar production.
The Eagles possess numerous roster gaps, particularly on defense, making it questionable to prioritize Barkley in free agency and commit to a substantial contract. Spotrac forecasts Barkley to secure a three-year, $29.9 million deal, a figure the Eagles might find untenable given their current needs.
Roseman’s philosophy of not investing heavily in running backs contrasts with the significant financial commitment Barkley would demand. The Eagles have previously allowed productive running backs like Miles Sanders to depart in free agency, opting for a committee approach instead.
The Eagles have demonstrated that they don’t necessarily require an elite running back to succeed in their running game. Hurts’s proficiency in the ground attack has contributed to the team’s rushing success, even without a top-tier back like Barkley.
Barkley’s injury history, including an ACL tear in 2020 and an ankle injury in 2023, raises concerns about his durability and availability throughout a season.
