Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni is rubbing it in the face of New York Giants fans after his team signed former Giants running back Saquon Barkley.
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni is known for his fiery personality and unwavering support for his team. However, his recent comments regarding the New York Giants and their former star running back, Saquon Barkley, have taken his rivalry with the NFC East foes to a new level.
While addressing reporters Wednesday, Sirianni was asked about the luxury of having Barkley in his backfield. In a response that would make any Eagles fan proud, Sirianni couldn't resist a subtle jab at the Giants.
"Sometimes you see Giants fans around here — being so close," Sirianni said, with a smirk, according to CBS Sports. "And they give me a good, ‘Hey, go Giants.’ I typically let it go, but if the [fan] gets me good enough, I usually say, ‘You know, we got your best player.’"
Sirianni's comments stem from the Giants' decision not to re-sign Barkley in free agency. Instead, the Eagles swooped in and offered him a three-year deal worth $12.6 million per season, while the Giants opted to sign his replacement, Devin Singletary.
Barkley's departure from New York was met with disappointment by Giants fans, who had witnessed his explosive potential and electrifying playmaking ability since he was drafted by the team second overall in 2018.
However, despite his impressive numbers and his status as one of the Giants' most popular players, Barkley was unable to lead the team to consistent success. The Giants finished with a disappointing 34-64-1 record during Barkley's tenure, including a dismal 3-13 campaign in 2023.
Despite the Giants' struggles, Barkley managed to showcase his exceptional talent during the 2022 season. He rushed for a career-high 1,312 yards and scored 10 touchdowns, while also hauling in 57 passes for 338 yards.
However, a mid-season injury to quarterback Daniel Jones derailed the Giants' playoff hopes, and Barkley's production declined as a result. He finished the 2023 season with 962 rushing yards and 280 receiving yards, along with 10 total touchdowns.
Barkley's arrival in Philadelphia has been met with great excitement by the Eagles faithful. He joins an already potent offense led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, and tight end Dallas Goedert.
With Barkley's versatility, strength, and speed, Sirianni has a dynamic weapon to utilize in his backfield. The Eagles are now considered one of the favorites to return to the Super Bowl, and Barkley's addition only strengthens their chances of success.
As a member of the Eagles, Barkley will face the Giants twice in each of the next three seasons. These games will undoubtedly be emotional for Barkley, who spent the first six years of his career in New York.
Giants fans may have mixed feelings about Barkley's departure, but there is no denying his talent and his ability to impact the game. He remains one of the most exciting players in the NFL, and his addition to the Eagles' offense will make the NFC East rivalry even more intense.
As the Eagles and Giants prepare for their upcoming matchups, Sirianni's comments will likely add fuel to the fire of their rivalry. Barkley is a key figure in this feud, and his presence in Philadelphia will undoubtedly make these games even more heated.
