Eagles Keep Saquon Barkley Amid Trade Deadline Rumors
Philadelphia will not move the running back before the deadline, citing his age, contract value, and status as the 2024 league's best player.
By Beatriz Soto ·
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Saquon Barkley will remain with the team through the current season, according to multiple reports from ESPN and NFL Network sources.
The running back's name has circulated in trade discussions as the Eagles' record deteriorates. Teams looking to improve their playoff odds view Barkley as an available asset. He turns 30 in February and carries a high-salary contract, yet he retains the ability to help a contender if a team pays a premium price.
Philadelphia has chosen to hold onto Barkley. The front office believes he has several productive years left. They also value his leadership in the locker room. Barkley was the league's top player during the 2024 season when the Eagles won the Super Bowl. Moving a player with that pedigree would be difficult for the organization and unpopular with fans.
The reporting characterizes the Eagles' stance as definitive. However, the team would likely accept a first-round draft pick for Barkley. The firmness of the reports suggests the Eagles have not received offers they consider valuable. This places Barkley in a safer position than other roster players who are not part of the long-term plan.
The trade deadline is approaching, and the Eagles have not initiated a move for their star runner. The decision keeps the roster intact for the remainder of the year.
