An Inside Look at Saquon Barkley's GPA at Penn State Ahead of Super Bowl LIX

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Feb 1, 2025 11:44 AM ET

While Philadelphia Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley’s talent on the football field has long been the main focus of his illustrious career, he was once quite the student during his three years at Penn State University.

Barkley, with his clear NFL aspirations, emerged as one of the best collegiate running backs of the last decade for the Nittany Lions, earning Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year honors twice. He amassed 5,538 all-purpose yards and 43 touchdowns, both of which set Penn State program records.

But Barkley wasn’t just a standout athlete—he was also an exceptional student during his time at Penn State. In 2017, a university trustee revealed that Barkley had earned a GPA over 3.0.

Penn State head coach James Franklin, who played a key role in Barkley's development, had high praise for his leadership and character during his days with the program.

"I think Saquon Barkley is a perfect example of what we’re doing, he showed up on campus and all he did was embrace everything that we asked him to do." Franklin said back in 2017. "He has over a 3.0 GPA. He is humble, hard-working. He’s appreciative. He is kind. He’s also 5-11, 220 pounds and runs 4.3."

Now, over seven years removed from his days at Penn State, Saquon Barkley’s character continues to be praised by coaches and teammates alike. Known for his selflessness and team-first mentality, Barkley has consistently shown that he’s more than just a talented football player.

Check out this moment which occurred during the NFC Championship Game when starting center Cam Jurgens played through an injury, stepping up for his team with the offensive line shorthanded.

Saquon Barkley to Cam Jurgens: “Way to fight for us. Seriously man. I appreciate you, dog.” ❤️pic.twitter.com/WYdr0dNOHq
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) January 27, 2025

Another clear example of this came during the final week of the regular season when Barkley was on the verge of breaking the all-time single-season rushing record. Despite the historic achievement within reach, Barkley had no hesitation when head coach Nick Sirianni decided to rest him for the game, knowing it had no playoff implications and avoiding any potential injury risk.

"Whatever his decision is, I'm all for it," Barkley said prior to Week 18. "If his mindset is, we'll go out there and try it, I'll go out there and try it. If his mindset is, let's rest and get ready for this run, I'm all for that, too ... I came here to do something special. Breaking a record is special, but I want a banner up there. I think we all do."

Now, he's just one win away from his first Lombardi Trophy as an NFL player, but his character—both as a person and a teammate—has remained unwavering.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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