Why Saquon Barkley’s $41M deal is a game-changer for running backs everywhere

NFL running back Saquon Barkley has taken center stage not only for his dominant on-field performance but also for his outspoken defense of the running back position. Fresh off his massive two-year, $41.2 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles, Barkley spoke candidly about the challenges running backs face in today’s NFL and praised the Eagles organization for valuing his contribution.

Saquon Barkley is not just rewriting records, he’s challenging long-standing narratives around running backs in today’s NFL.

The star running back’s powerful message on fair pay and player security

Saquon Barkley’s impact goes far beyond his record-breaking stats. After a standout 2024 season that ended with a Super Bowl win and Offensive Player of the Year honors, the Eagles star is gearing up for 2025 with even higher expectations. With a strengthened backfield and a smarter rotation plan, the team aims to protect Barkley’s health while keeping their run game dominant.

Off the field, Barkley remains a strong voice for fair player treatment and guaranteed contracts.

In a recent episode of the Excitingmics podcast, the star rusher opened up about his contract journey and the bigger picture it reflects. "Shout out to the Eagles organization, Howie. A lot of times, GMs and organizations have leverage on you and, you know, they can do whatever they want. So… But it’s cool to help bring back the running back market," Barkley said, acknowledging how rare it is for a franchise to reward running backs fairly.

“It was just a narrative that they were trying to create because they paid Todd Gurley. They paid Zeke. I got drafted high, and they paid Christian. And we all had a time where we all were banged up and getting hurt. But you can do that for any position.” He pointed out that injuries are part of the game and shouldn’t be used to devalue one position over another.He didn’t stop there. Barkley offered a reminder of what truly builds championship teams.

“It doesn’t just work like that. It’s football. At the end of the day, you got to play great defense. You have to be able to run the football, and you need a good quarterback. If you don’t have that. The majority of the time, you’re not going to have a chance to win a Super Bowl.”Also read: Joey Bosa injury puts early dent in Bills’ defensive plans ahead of NFL seasonBarkley’s comments reflect a growing frustration among top-tier running backs who feel overlooked in today’s pass-heavy league. But with his record-breaking performance in 2024 and a new contract that sets a high standard, Barkley isn’t just talking, he’s leading a shift in how the position is valued. His voice is now part of a larger movement demanding fair recognition and investment in one of the game’s most physically demanding roles.