Saquon Barkley’s signing represents a significant departure from the Philadelphia Eagles’ traditional approach to running backs under general manager Howie Roseman. Prior to Barkley, the Eagles had refrained from awarding multi-year contracts to running backs, reflecting a broader trend in the NFL of devaluing the position.
Barkley was viewed by the Eagles as a transformative player, embodying the versatile skill set they sought in a three-down running back. Owner Jeffrey Lurie emphasized the importance of running backs who excel not only in rushing but also in the passing game, highlighting Barkley’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the offense.
Despite their success in previous Super Bowl appearances without a star running back, the Eagles recognized the potential impact Barkley could have on their offense. Lurie indicated that Barkley’s skill set could be maximized within a team boasting stronger skill positions, including quarterback and offensive line.
The Eagles’ history of Super Bowl appearances without heavily investing in the running back position underscores their reliance on other offensive assets, such as an exceptional offensive line, to achieve success. However, Barkley’s signing signals a strategic shift for the Eagles, placing greater emphasis on the multifaceted capabilities of elite running backs like Barkley.
The Philadelphia Eagles have traditionally been cautious about investing heavily in the running back position, but they made an exception with Saquon Barkley. Owner Jeffrey Lurie highlighted Barkley’s exceptional talent and versatility, likening him to former Eagles greats like LeSean McCoy and Brian Westbrook, who significantly impacted both the running and passing aspects of the offense.
Lurie and general manager Howie Roseman emphasized the importance of acquiring exceptionally talented players, regardless of position. In Barkley’s case, they believed his impact on the team justified the investment, especially considering his ability to raise both the running and passing attacks.
Despite the Eagles’ conservative approach to spending, they felt that allocating resources to a player of Barkley’s caliber was the right decision for the team’s success.
