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How Is Barry Sanders Honoring Saquon Barkley?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Aiden Kauffman | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 6:32 PM ET

In a heartfelt nod to greatness, Barry Sanders, one of the NFL’s most iconic running backs, recognized Saquon Barkley with a signed jersey and a personal message of support. The Detroit Lions legend lauded Barkley for proving "how valuable you really are," a sentiment that carries extra weight during Barkley's standout season with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The honor comes as Barkley leads the NFL with 1,688 rushing yards, positioning him to finish the season with over 2,000 yards, a milestone achieved by only eight players in league history. Barkley's historic pace has catapulted him into the MVP conversation, a rare feat for a running back in a quarterback-dominated league. If successful, he would be the first non-quarterback to win the award since Adrian Peterson in 2012.

Sanders' recognition is timely, highlighting not just Barkley’s on-field brilliance but also his resilience in a league that has devalued the running back position. Barkley, who faced contentious contract negotiations before signing a deal with the Eagles, is proving the enduring impact of elite rushers. His $12.6 million annual salary, though substantial, pales in comparison to the soaring earnings of quarterbacks, with top earners commanding upwards of $60 million per year.

Barkley's importance to the Eagles’ 12-2 record and franchise-record 10-game winning streak underscores the value of a dynamic running back in complementing a strong roster. In contrast, his previous stint with the struggling New York Giants demonstrated that even the most talented rusher cannot single-handedly carry a team.

This season, Barkley has not only redefined his own career trajectory but also reopened the conversation about the running back's role in modern football. Sanders’ gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless importance of the position.

As the league continues to grapple with questions about running back value, Barkley's success—coupled with endorsements from NFL legends like Sanders—may spark a broader reevaluation of the position's impact. Whether Barkley’s remarkable season can reshape perceptions remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the mutual respect between two generational talents highlights the enduring significance of rushing excellence in the NFL.

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

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