Saquon Barkley’s arrival at the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 has quickly become one of the NFL’s most impactful moves, culminating in the star running back being named the league’s top player at his position heading into the 2025 season by The Associated Press.
Barkley’s first season with the Eagles was nothing short of spectacular. He captured seven of eight first-place votes from the AP’s panel of Pro Football Writers, confirming his status as the premier ground threat in the NFL.
His remarkable 2024 campaign featured 2,005 rushing yards during the regular season-just 101 yards shy of Eric Dickerson’s all-time single-season record of 2,106. Barkley was rested late in Week 18, signaling a strategic move to preserve his health for the playoffs.
When postseason numbers are included, Barkley’s total rushing yardage soared to an unprecedented 2,504 yards, surpassing Terrell Davis’ previous record of 2,476 yards for a single season including playoffs.
A highlight of his historic run was his seven touchdown runs of 60 yards or more, underlining his explosive ability to break games wide open.
Barkley has hade a huge influence on and off the field
Barkley’s influence extends far beyond individual records. His dynamic running game has reshaped the Eagles’ offense, turning them into a dominant force and helping propel the team to a Super Bowl LIX championship. His relentless presence on the ground was a key factor in the Eagles’ playoff success, redefining the team’s championship trajectory.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Eagles secured Barkley with a two-year, $41.2 million contract extension, including $36 million guaranteed-the richest deal ever awarded to a running back. Barkley also earned the honor of being the cover athlete for Madden 26, reflecting his rising prominence both on and off the field.
While Barkley’s top ranking was nearly unanimous, fierce competition remained. Baltimore Ravens’ Derrick Henry earned the remaining first-place vote after an extraordinary season that saw him rush for 1,921 yards at age 30 – the most yards ever by a player over 30, breaking Tiki Barber’s record.
Detroit Lions’ Jahmyr Gibbs finished third after a breakout sophomore season with 1,412 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 517 receiving yards, accumulating 36 total touchdowns over two seasons-just one shy of Hall of Famer Curtis Martin’s mark. Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson and San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey completed the top five, with McCaffrey’s ranking tempered by injuries limiting his playtime.
Barkley’s rise in Philadelphia represents a perfect synergy of elite talent and opportunity. After six seasons of personal success but team frustration with the New York Giants, his trade to the Eagles revitalized his career and elevated the franchise.
Philadelphia’s offensive line, led by Cam Jurgens, provided the crucial blocking for Barkley’s talents, while playmakers like quarterback Jalen Hurts and wide receiver A.J. Brown kept defenses honest and prevented opponents from stacking the box.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Barkley enters not only as the NFL’s best running back but as the centerpiece of an Eagles offense poised for another championship run. The challenge for Barkley isn’t just to replicate last year’s historic feats-it’s to surpass them.
The Eagles open their season at Lincoln Financial Field, where fans will eagerly watch Barkley attempt to build on a phenomenal debut season and continue his rise as one of the NFL’s all-time greats.
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