Saquon Barkley, one of the most prominent players in the NFL and a key figure for the Philadelphia Eagles, was recently embroiled in political controversy after being wrongly linked to an initiative by President Donald Trump
In the world of the NFL, few figures attract as much attention as Saquon Barkley, who, after a historic season with the Philadelphia Eagles, has become a key player in the defense of the title. However, in recent days, his name has resonated off the field for completely different reasons.
The announcement took both fans and analysts by surprise, as they did not expect to see the name of the Eagles’ number 26 in a political context. According to reports, Trump had signed an executive order on July 31, 2025, to revive the council, including a list of notable athletes such as Nick Bosa, Tua Tagovailoa, Tony Romo and Lawrence Taylor. For many, it was also shocking to see Barkley on that list.
Barkley responds: “It’s not my role, it’s not my path”
After days of speculation and rumors, Saquon Barkley finally broke his silence. In comments shared by journalist Zach Berman of PHLY on the social network X (formerly Twitter), the player clarified his position:
I’m not part of President Trump’s council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. I was asked about it a few months ago and it wasn’t something I was prepared to take on. I was surprised that my name was mentioned
Barkley wants to leave behind any political distractions, and his total focus is on the field of play. After a season in which he was named 2024 Offensive Player of the Year and signed a multi-million dollar contract, Barkley does not want anything to distract him or the team.
Saquon Barkley and Donald Trump
This was not the first episode in which Saquon Barkley and Donald Trump made headlines together. Months earlier, in April, another controversy was generated when Barkley was seen playing golf with Trump in Bedminster, New Jersey, and later boarding Air Force One on his way to the Eagles’ celebration at the White House.
Focused on the Eagles and the 2025 season
With the 2025 season underway, Barkley has shown why he is one of the best running backs in the league. During training camp, reports indicate that he has been seen more agile than ever, quickly adapting to the offensive system commanded by Jalen Hurts.
The Philadelphia Eagles, reigning Super Bowl LIX champions after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22, have placed high hopes on him to lead the ground attack. Fans are hoping Barkley can repeat or even surpass his performance from last year.
Saquon Barkley: football first, politics later
Barkley’s case leaves a clear lesson: athletes also have the right to draw their own boundaries, especially when it comes to such sensitive issues as politics. Although his figure attracts attention on and off the field, he has chosen to focus his energy on what he loves most: football.
In a year where the Philadelphia Eagles are looking to repeat the feat and lift the Vince Lombardi trophy, every play counts. For Barkley, there is no time for controversy, only for yards gained, well-executed blocks and the possibility of writing another glorious chapter in his career.
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