In the 2024 NFL offseason, running back Saquon Barkley found himself without a team after the New York Giants decided not to re-sign him. Barkley, who had been with the Giants since being drafted in 2018, was seen as a valuable asset and was pursued by several teams. Among those teams was the Philadelphia Eagles, who ultimately signed him to a three-year deal worth $37.75 million.
The decision by the Giants to let Barkley go came after much deliberation within the organization. According to reports, a group of heavy hitters in the Giants' pro personnel department met to discuss Barkley's future and considered franchise tagging him and trying to trade him instead.
Despite this, Barkley was ultimately released as part of the team's efforts to rebuild around quarterback Daniel Jones. The Giants believed that Jones was their guy for the next 10 years, but they were unsure if he could lead them to success without a strong running game.
Barkley's departure left a void in the Giants' backfield, and many fans were disappointed with the team's decision. However, one person who was not was Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.
Brown, who had developed a friendship with Barkley during their time together in the NFL, took to Twitter to express his support for his new teammate and promise to help him succeed in Philadelphia.
The Giants' decision not to re-sign Barkley was a topic of discussion on HBO's