Deal Collapsed: Saquon Barkley Contract with Eagles Cancelled Due to Contractual Disputes and Medical.
April 10, 2025
PHILADELPHIA — What was supposed to be one of the biggest offseason acquisitions in the NFL has come to an abrupt and shocking end. The Philadelphia Eagles and star running back Saquon Barkley have officially parted ways before the ink on their agreement could even dry. The three-year, $37.75 million deal that was announced just last month has now been canceled due to what sources describe as a combination of contractual disputes and unresolved medical concerns stemming from Barkley’s physical.
The Fallout No One Saw Coming
The news sent shockwaves through the NFL world. Barkley, a former second overall pick by the New York Giants and a two-time Pro Bowler, was expected to bring explosiveness and veteran leadership to an already dynamic Eagles offense. After a tumultuous end to his tenure in New York, many believed Philadelphia would be a perfect reset. The Eagles, coming off a disappointing playoff exit in 2024, looked to retool their backfield with Barkley as the centerpiece.
But within weeks of the announcement, quiet rumblings began to emerge regarding delays in finalizing the contract. Barkley had yet to be formally introduced at a press conference, and the team removed promotional materials that had included his image.
According to sources close to the negotiation, the initial agreement was contingent on passing a thorough physical examination. While Barkley did complete his physical with the Eagles medical team, doctors reportedly flagged “structural concerns” in his right knee — the same knee that required ACL surgery in 2020. While Barkley has played well since his recovery, insiders say the medical team was “not confident” about the long-term durability of the knee, particularly under a heavy workload.
A Closer Look at the Contract Dispute
Beyond the medical red flags, sources say that negotiations hit a wall over contract guarantees and incentives. Barkley’s representatives pushed for a higher portion of the $37.75 million to be guaranteed, citing his Pro Bowl performance last season and career-high 1,378 rushing yards.
The Eagles front office, led by GM Howie Roseman, was reportedly hesitant to fully guarantee more than $19 million. The team wanted injury protections built into the second and third years of the deal. Barkley’s camp viewed this as a slight and began renegotiating terms — ultimately leading to a stalemate.
“Saquon felt like he was being asked to prove himself all over again,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. “He believed his resume spoke for itself, but the Eagles had long-term concerns and tried to hedge their risk.”
With tensions rising and trust eroding between both parties, the Eagles chose to terminate the agreement before the contract could be finalized and filed with the league.
Statement from the Eagles
In a statement released Thursday morning, the Eagles confirmed the collapse of the deal.
> “After thorough discussions and evaluations, we and Saquon Barkley have mutually agreed not to move forward with the previously announced contract. We appreciate Saquon’s professionalism throughout the process and wish him the best as he explores new opportunities.”
The statement made no direct reference to the medical concerns or contract disputes, but sources confirm the cancellation was not entirely mutual — Barkley was reportedly “blindsided” by the Eagles’ decision to walk away.
Barkley Breaks Silence
Barkley took to social media Thursday afternoon, posting a cryptic but emotional message on X (formerly Twitter):
> “God’s plan. I’ll keep moving forward. When one door closes, another one opens.”
He has not spoken publicly beyond that message, though those close to him say he’s “frustrated and disappointed” with how things unfolded.
“It wasn’t just about football for Saquon,” said a family member. “He was looking forward to staying close to home, joining a playoff contender, and proving he’s still elite. This was supposed to be the next chapter.”
What’s Next for Both Parties?
The Eagles now find themselves back on the market for a starting-caliber running back. With D’Andre Swift also having left in free agency and Kenneth Gainwell returning as a depth piece, the backfield looks thin. Roseman could explore trade options or make a late push for free agents like Austin Ekeler or Kareem Hunt.
As for Barkley, the sudden collapse leaves him in an uncertain position. At 28 years old and with a history of lower body injuries, some teams may be wary of committing major money. Still, several franchises in need of a high-upside back could enter the mix, including the Baltimore Ravens, Dallas Cowboys, and even the Miami Dolphins.
“There’s definitely still a market for Saquon,” said an AFC executive. “But this Eagles situation may force a recalibration of his expectations. He might have to take a one-year prove-it deal now.”
The Bigger Picture
This deal collapse highlights a growing trend across the NFL: running backs are being valued less and scrutinized more. Even elite names like Barkley aren’t immune to the market forces pushing teams toward committee backfields and cap flexibility.
It also underscores the importance of transparency in contract negotiations. Multiple insiders have hinted that both sides made assumptions — Barkley’s camp assumed full trust in his health and legacy, while the Eagles assumed flexibility in their contract structure would be accepted. The lack of middle ground proved fatal.
Fan Reaction and Fallout
Eagles fans, who initially welcomed Barkley with open arms despite his Giants past, expressed frustration and confusion online. Social media was flooded with posts questioning the front office’s decision and speculating whether this could affect future free agent signings.
“I was ready to buy his jersey,” said longtime Eagles fan Anthony Rivera. “I feel like we just lost a top-five back over a few million bucks.”
Others were more understanding, siding with the team’s cautious approach given Barkley’s injury history.
“Let’s be real — we’ve been burned before with long-term deals on aging players,” said another fan. “It’s a tough call, but maybe the right one.
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