The long list of running backs on track for free agency next week is headlined by Saquon Barkley.
A departure from the Giants is a distinct possibility, but he may still find himself playing in the NFC East in 2024.
The Eagles have an interest in signing the two-time Pro Bowler, per Howard Eskin of 94 WIP. That interest is reciprocated by Barkley himself, Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post adds.
Philadelphia could be in the market for a new lead running back in free agency if D’Andre Swift departs.
The latter was acquired via trade from the Lions during last year’s draft, and he enjoyed a career year while leading the Eagles’ RB depth chart.
Swift topped 1,000 rushing yards for the first time and received a Pro Bowl invite. Given his age (25), he could be in store for a better market than most other older backs who will be available once the new league year begins.
Barkley has far more in the way of pedigree given his past production, though, and he could manage to secure more guaranteed money than most (or any) other backs in 2024.
The Eagles are positioned to be spenders at a few positions in free agency, as they currently have just under $42M in cap space.
Running backs have seen their collective value stagnate over time, and signs continue to point in that direction given the crop of veteran players who will be on the market simultaneously.
Still, Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano reports the Eagles are believed to be willing to “take a swing” at Barkley, which would represent a major move on offense.
Philadelphia’s late-season collapse was due in large part to defensive deficiencies, but inconsistency on the other side of the ball was often related to struggles in the ground game.
Swift is joined by Boston Scott and Rashaad Penny as pending free agents, so the RB room could look much different for the Eagles in short order.
Barkley would take on primary rushing responsibilities with a deal and also serve the role of complementary pass-catcher in an offense that could stand to add more targets at the running back spot.
News of the Barkley-Eagles interest is interesting on several levels, not the least of which is the potential of the 27-year-old making an intra-divisional move.
However, it is also notable given the recent report that tapped the Texans as Barkley’s preferred destination.
In any case, his market will be worth watching closely when free agency begins, as will the Eagles’ willingness to make a splashy addition to the position.
More must-reads: