Saquon doesn’t expect ‘great reaction’ in 1st game vs. Giants

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley isn’t anticipating a warm reception Sunday in his return to MetLife Stadium after leaving the New York Giants this past offseason.

“I don’t expect a great reaction. I don’t expect to be booed,” Barkley said, according to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan and Tim McManus. “I look at it like this: The Philadelphia Eagles and New York Football Giants probably played in over 200 games. This rivalry was there before me, and it’s going to be there after me.”

Barkley’s departure left many Giants fans feeling jilted after he agreed to terms on a three-year, $37.75-million contract with the Eagles. New York attempted to retain the dynamic tailback dating back to the 2022 season but was unable to come to terms on an extension.

Giants co-owner John Mara was seen on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” before free agency sharing his concern with general manager Joe Schoen about the possibility of Barkley signing with the rival Eagles.

While Barkley now finds himself on the opposing sideline, he remains on good terms with several members of his former club, including quarterback Daniel Jones.

“It is a little different. Just used to being on the field with him, seeing him in Giants colors,” Jones said.

Barkley leads the Eagles with 482 yards, four touchdowns, and 5.3 yards per carry while adding 14 catches for 92 yards and a receiving score through five games.

“I know that the people that have been around him have a great deal of respect for Saquon,” Giants head coach Brian Daboll said. “Our job is going to be to do what we need to do. He’s a tough player to defend, and we’re going to have our hands full.”

The Giants signed running back Devin Singletary shortly after Barkley’s departure in free agency. Rookie Tyrone Tracy and Eric Gray have shared the backfield with Singletary recently sidelined with a groin injury.