Eagles Star Saquon Barkley Hints at Surprise Retirement, Could Shock NFL
Despite coming off the best season of his career — and one of the greatest campaigns by a running back in league history — Philadelphia Eagles standout Saquon Barkley is already thinking about the end of the road. While his performance suggests he has plenty left in the tank, Barkley admitted he might walk away from the game much earlier than expected.
Following a monster season, Barkley is now the highest-paid running back in NFL history, having signed a two-year, $41.2 million extension that keeps him under contract through 2028. He’ll be 31 by the time his deal expires — an age where most running backs start to decline or retire.
But according to Barkley, he may not even make it that far.
Speaking on the Green Light podcast with former Eagles defensive end Chris Long, Barkley revealed he might abruptly retire — and it could happen any year.
“I’ll probably be one of those guys who retires out of nowhere,” Barkley said. “Could be next year, could be in four. I might just wake up one day and decide I’m done. I don’t think I’ll ever lose my competitive fire, but I could see myself going out like Barry Sanders.”
Barkley has long admired Sanders, the Hall of Fame Detroit Lions running back who shocked the NFL by retiring at 31 while still dominating the league. Barkley’s recent comments have led fans and analysts to wonder if he’s planning to follow a similar path.
Though he’s expressed a desire to be among the all-time greats, Barkley might choose to leave while still on top — avoiding the physical decline many running backs face late in their careers.
Whether he continues to chase greatness or decides to hang it up early, Barkley’s impact is undeniable. But now, the question looms: just how soon will he say goodbye?
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