When the Philadelphia Eagles were able to successfully entice Saquon Barkley to Philadelphia during the summer, it created quite a stir. It was unexpected that the two-time Pro Bowl running back chose to join the Eagles before the 2024 season because he had become a fixture on the New York Giants’ roster for the previous six seasons.
The Philadelphia star Lane Johnson, for his part, acknowledges that he was surprised by this decision. But the two-time All-Pro tackle is ecstatic about this development.
News from the Philadelphia Eagles: Lane Johnson Reacts to Saquon Barkley’s Arrival
Johnson has spent a number of years watching Barkley dominate for the Giants. Even though they’ve joined forces, the veteran still has to pinch himself since he never thought Barkley would decide to sign with the Eagles:
Johnson remarked of Barkley, “Once you see him, you’ll never forget, just physically imposing guy” (via NFL’s Bobby Kownack). “I estimate that he weighs about 230 pounds.” .. He is fiercely competitive. He can play once you see what he can do as running back and we can stretch him out at receiver. It’s astounding. He’s playing for us? That never occurred to me, yet it does. I am aware of his excitement. We’re excited right from the start. He seems ready for a significant year.
Barkley will be crucial to Philadelphia’s 2024 campaign as they attempt to improve on their dismal 2023 campaign. Although Johnson is unsure of how and why the Eagles failed in 2023, he is certain that they will return this year with a vengeance:
“Every year is unique,” he remarked. “I wish I knew why the season unfolded like it did in the second half. It passed fairly quickly, and I’m sure there was no issue afterwards. However, [I’m] eagerly anticipating this new offensive under Kellen Moore. There will be some upfront changes for us. 12th year, man, I’m excited. Amazing how quickly time passes.
