The long list of running backs on track for free agency next week is headlined by Saquon Barkley. A departure from the Giants is a distinct possibility, but he may still find himself playing in the NFC East in 2024. 
[RELATED: Giants Have Not Submitted Offer To Saquon Barkley]
The Eagles have an interest in signing the two-time Pro Bowler, per Howard Eskin of 94 WIP. That interest is reciprocated by Barkley himself, Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post adds. Philadelphia could be in the market for a new lead running back in free agency if D’Andre Swift departs.
The latter was acquired via trade from the Lions during last year’s draft, and he enjoyed a career year while leading the Eagles’ RB depth chart. Swift topped 1,000 rushing yards for the first time and received a Pro Bowl invite. Given his age (25), he could be in store for a better market than most other, older backs who will be available once the new league year begins. Barkley has far more in the way of pedigree given his past production, though, and he could manage to secure more guaranteed money than most (or any) other backs in 2024.
The Eagles are positioned to be spenders at a few positions in free agency, as they currently have just under $42MM in cap space. Running backs have seen their collective value stagnate over time, and signs continue to point in that direction given the crop of veteran players who will be on the market simultaneously. Still, Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano reports the Eagles are believed to be willing to “take a swing” at Barkley, a move which would represent a major move on offense.
Philadelphia’s late-season collapse was due in large part to defensive deficiencies, but inconsistency on the other side of the ball was often related to struggles in the ground game. Swift is joined by Boston Scott and Rashaad Penny as pending free agents, so the RB room could look much different for the Eagles in short order. Barkley would take on primary rushing responsibilities with a deal and also serve the role of complementary pass-catcher in an offense which could stand to add more targets at the running back spot.
News of Barkley-Eagles interest is interesting on a number of levels, not the least of which being the potential of the 27-year-old making an intra-divisional move. However, it is also notable given the recent report which tapped the Texans as Barkley’s preferred destination. In any case, his market will be worth watching closely when free agency begins, as will the Eagles’ willingness to make a splashy addition at the position.
Even in the off-season, the Philadelphia Eagles find ways to torment the football Giants.
ugh
Just to tush push from the 1
Weird fit. Hurts/Eagles O doesn’t really utilize running backs in the pass game.
New Offensive Cordinator.
Maybe it changes, but it hasn’t really been used under Steichen or Johnson. I think it’s more of a Hurts thing. When you’re a mobile QB you scramble instead of check down in the flat.
It’s not like Barkley is primarily a receiving back. Heck, over the last three years, he’s had more rushing attempts and fewer receptions than Swift.
Sure, he’s not a primary receiving back, but a lot of his value comes in that he’s a 3 down back. Just seems like an odd use of resources if you’re not taking advantage of his receiving. They’d be better off with a Henry type between the tackles for what they usually do. Maybe the offense changes, but I don’t really see it
Aside from Moore stepping in, I wouldn’t be surprised if usage would change with personnel. Given his skills, he could be a better fourth receiving option. Anyway, it’s not like the Eagles are the type of team to play a running back 75% of their snaps.
He’s a good pass catcher and an even better runner.
Homecoming, huge gamble on hoping he stay’s healthy plus he’s looking to get more money than I’d allocate for him.
Barkley fumbles once every 200 carries on average while Swift fumbles once every 66 carries. I’d be willing to pay a bit extra for the added ball security Barkley provides.
I believe Barkley goes to Houston.
Same.
Life long Eagles fan. I love the idea of a true 3 down back, but I don’t buy it. It doesn’t fit the birds m.o., and honestly, let’s consider the source here. Eskin is a clown and puts outlandish things out there just to make waves.
No one is more closer to the Eagles than The King as far as Philly sports media goes. I’d take what he has to say
I doubt the Eagles are seriously interested in this retread (who will be demanding +$10 million per season for multiple years). Sounds like Barkley’s agent is trying to make it sound like his client is more highly sought after than is actually true.
Chump, Barkley is hardly a retread and would flourish in Philly. Obviously Barkley knows he won’t be getting nor will the birds be paying 10 million. You are dismissed Chumply.
3.9 YPC = retread.
While most armchair Eagles fans will like the idea of a talented back like Saquon on the team, I don’t think the Eagles value the position enough to pay the money for him.
The money is better invested in a 3rd WR and the interior of the defense.
I actually think guard and safety should be top priority. That’s my “arm chair” take. Haha
Kip, you obviously don’t watch the birds. Agree with my friend Andy. Stick with the philles.