Philadelphia Eagles fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Their newly acquired star running back, Saquon Barkley, recently revealed he seriously considered signing with the Houston Texans before ultimately choosing the Eagles. This surprising tidbit emerged in an interview on the “New Heights” podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce.
A tweet by NFL Rumors (@nflrums) captured the essence of the story, stating:
Eagles new running back Saquon Barkley came very close to signing with the Houston Texans with the influence of CJ Stroud. pic.twitter.com/o1UVvX6VTO
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) March 31, 2024
This news sheds light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations of free agency and the potential influence teammates can have on a player’s decision.
After a tumultuous tenure with the New York Giants, Saquon Barkley sought a fresh start in 2024 free agency. The Philadelphia Eagles emerged as a frontrunner, offering him the chance to revitalize his career in a dynamic offense. However, Barkley’s decision wasn’t always a foregone conclusion.
Saquon Barkley Almost Lands in Houston
According to Saquon Barkley, he had serious discussions with the Houston Texans before ultimately signing with the Eagles. The tweet by NFL Rumors highlights the role of his former teammate, Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud, who currently plays for the Texans. Barkley revealed that Stroud, with whom he formed a strong connection in college, “talked him up” about the Texans’ potential and the opportunity to be a central figure in their rebuild.
Despite the Texan’s efforts, the Eagles ultimately won Barkley’s favor. Several factors likely contributed to his decision. The Eagles’ established offensive system, a strong offensive line, and the presence of a proven quarterback in Jalen Hurts all likely played a role. Additionally, the allure of competing for a championship in a stacked NFC East division might have been more enticing compared to a rebuilding Texans team.
The news of Saquon Barkley’s near-signing with the Texans is sure to spark debate among NFL analysts. Barkley’s talent is undeniable, and his presence could have significantly bolstered the Texans’ offense. However, the Texans might have been hesitant to offer Barkley a top-tier contract, especially considering their overall rebuilding phase.
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