In what can only be described as a bombshell moment to ignite the 2025 NFL season, Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has declared open war on two of his division’s fiercest rivals—the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders.
The former New York Giants star, who made the stunning leap to the Eagles in free agency this offseason, did not mince words during a fiery post-practice press conference in Philadelphia.
“I’ve had this circled since the day I signed,” Barkley said. “The Cowboys and Commanders? Those are lifelong rivals now. Every down I get against them, I’m coming for their throats. No dancing. No sidestepping. This is personal.”
The comment set off immediate waves throughout the NFC East, especially among the Dallas and Washington fanbases. Barkley, who spent six seasons carrying the Giants’ offense, has now joined a loaded Eagles roster hungry for another Super Bowl run. And he’s bringing a grudge that might just fuel one of the most explosive seasons of his career.
Insiders say Barkley was deeply affected by how contract negotiations ended in New York, and how both Dallas and Washington personnel reportedly passed on acquiring him during free agency. “He feels disrespected,” one source close to Barkley said. “And now he’s going to make them feel that every time he touches the ball.”
Already, the Eagles’ offense looks poised to unleash him in every possible way. Head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed Barkley will be used more as a pass-catcher in space, in addition to his traditional role as a workhorse back. “He’s got something to prove,” Sirianni said. “And we plan to let him prove it.”
In Week 4, the Eagles face the Commanders at home. Week 9 brings a Sunday Night Football showdown with the Cowboys in Arlington. Barkley, for his part, has those dates circled in red.
“This ain’t just a game to me,” he said. “This is about legacy. This is about pride. You don’t get to disrespect me and think I’ll forget. I’m wearing midnight green now—and I’m coming.”
Philadelphia fans, already famous for their passion, erupted on social media, praising Barkley’s warrior mentality. Former Eagles great Brian Westbrook even tweeted: “That’s the Philly spirit. Run hard. Hit harder. Make ‘em remember.”
The NFC East has always been brutal. But with Saquon Barkley now wearing vengeance on his sleeve, the stakes just got higher. Every time he lines up in the backfield, two cities will be holding their breath—and one warrior will be hunting for redemption.