Out of nowhere, Saquon Barkley recently revealed his retirement plans. The news shocked many—including the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, head coach Nick Sirianni has responded with a blunt message to the team’s star running back.
Playing football comes with a bittersweet reality for most star athletes. Depending on their position, some enjoy long careers, while others are forced to retire earlier due to the physical toll of the game.
Quarterbacks typically have greater longevity since they avoid constant high-impact collisions. Running backs, however, often face shorter careers due to the punishing workload and frequent contact.
Saquon Barkley shocks Eagles with talk of retirement, HC Nick Sirianni responds
Just a few days ago, Saquon Barkley admitted he might retire “out of nowhere,” similar to how other NFL players have chosen to walk away from the game unexpectedly. The running back is fully aware of the long-term health risks associated with playing beyond his peak.
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As a running back, Barkley is more prone to serious injuries than players at less physically demanding positions. Most recently, fellow star Christian McCaffrey revealed he was dealing with Achilles tendinitis in both legs, a reminder that even elite athletes aren’t immune to injury.
Barkley doesn’t want to put his future health in jeopardy—and while his comments were honest and thoughtful, the idea of him retiring without warning has raised some concern in Philadelphia.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has since addressed Barkley’s comments. Despite being caught off guard by the remarks, Sirianni supported his player’s mindset but also expressed confidence that Barkley still has several strong years ahead.
Saquon Barkley #26 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 to win Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
“Yeah, I guess anybody could do that, right? I just know he’s got a lot of good football left in him,” Sirianni said, via a transcript from the team. “Again, I have interactions with these guys every single day and I’m excited that he’s on our football team and he’ll be on our football team for the 2025 season and I really don’t let myself get wrapped up into anything else beyond that, except for the day that we’re in and trying to get ready for this practice and obviously handle all those things as they come. Yeah, as long as I’m the head coach here, I’d always want to Saquon Barkley on this football team. Obviously it means a lot to this football team and as a player and as a teammate.”
How long is Saquon Barkley’s contract with the Eagles?
In the 2024 offseason, the Eagles made a bold move by signing Saquon Barkley. While he initially hoped to remain with the New York Giants, Philadelphia’s offer was too good to pass up.
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Barkley signed a three-year deal upon arrival. However, after a standout 2024 NFL season, the team extended his contract—locking him in through the 2028 campaign, when he’ll be 31 years old.
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