The RB returned to MetLife Stadium as a visitor on Sunday, but Barkley said the Eagles organization had his back.
It’s always a good day when the Eagles beat the Giants, but Sunday’s win was even sweeter for Saquon Barkley, who has been eyeing this matchup for awhile. Barkley finished the game with 17 carries for 176 yards and one TD, along with two catches for 11 additional yards, but he told reporters after the game that he was just happy that they won.
“To be honest, I’m so glad this game’s over. I don’t think I should get — besides today — any more questions about the Giants.
Like I always said, thankful for the organization, they’re the team that drafted me, still got nothing but love and respect for all the guys over there, but I’m happy to be an Eagle and most importantly, we got a win in the division, against a division rival. Now it’s on to the next one.”
The RB was asked when the emotional aspect hit him as he prepared to play his former team, but he noted that it probably crept in a little more during the game — although, he tried not to let it affect him.
“I think I talked a little more shit today than I usually do, but I think I did a really good job of being locked in through the week. Right now, where I’m at mentally, just focused on my preparation, focusing on the little things, staying consistent.”
Barkley went on to explain that being focused on those things allowed him to drown out the boos, and stay locked in on the moment and to the task at hand. He admitted that he couldn’t help but hear the boos from his former fans, pointing out he probably didn’t help things earlier in the week when he said he wasn’t expecting that kind of reception.
“They’re booing for a reason. It’s a compliment at the end of the day — that’s how I took it.”
The running back also talked about how surprised he was that they were burning his jersey in the parking lot before the game. Barkley said that it’s not the first time he’s seen fans burn his jersey, but the timing of it, to see the smoke during warmups, was crazy.
“In the moment, I was ready for 3rd-and-1, let’s just say that.”
He was 14 rushing yards away from a career-high when the offensive starters were pulled thanks to a 28-3 lead in the fourth quarter. Barkley acknowledged he cares about his legacy, but the numbers aren’t as important as winning, and he also noted he was happy to see Kenny Gainwell and Will Shipley get some opportunities.
Barkley later talked about all the support he had this week leading up to the big game, and while he tried not to make it any bigger than other games, he really appreciated everyone who checked up on him — he named family, friends, A.J. Brown, Jalen Hurts, coaches, and even the team therapist, Jody.
The RB said that even though he’s only been with the Eagles’ organization for a few months, it’s nice to know that going into a hostile environment so many people have your back.
