Brandon Graham expects 'big things' from Eagles offense in 2024, especially Saquon Barkley
The Philadelphia Eagles hit a nerve in New York Giants fans when they signed former divisional rival running back Saquon Barkley to a massive deal during NFL free agency. And Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham sort of feels bad for them. "It sucked for the Giants fans because that's like us losing our top guy," […]
The Philadelphia Eagles hit a nerve in New York Giants fans when they signed former divisional rival running back Saquon Barkley to a massive deal during NFL free agency.
And Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham sort of feels bad for them.
"It sucked for the Giants fans because that's like us losing our top guy," Graham said, via the New York Post. "I understand business is business, but I know Saquon definitely is looking forward to this season. … We know that people are pissed about it. They hope that nothing comes of it. I know that's how mad some people are about it."
But he also sort of doesn't, now that Barkley is on the same sideline as him and he's no longer forced to stop him.
Barkley notched over 1,000 total rushing yards in four of his six NFL seasons with the Giants. And he likely would have eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards for the Giants in 2023 had he not missed three games due to a high ankle sprain or had a better offensive line.
Despite those setbacks, Barkley still managed to run for 962 yards and six touchdowns, while adding another 280 yards and four touchdowns in the air last season.
"You just can't let him hit the hole, that's the biggest thing," Graham said. "Once he hits the hole, he's a home-run hitter. I know for Saquon. He always was the guy you don't want to see with daylight."
Now an Eagle, Barkley is blessed with one of the best offensive lines in the NFL.
Sure, he won't be fortunate to have the legendary Jason Kelce anchoring the Eagles' offensive line. But he still gets to work alongside some of the league's other best blockers in Lane Johnson, Jordan Mailata, and Landon Dickerson, and that's enough to set him up for success.
How successful Barkley is in 2024 remains to be seen, but Graham expects big things from him, and the rest of the Eagles' offense.
"I guess you're going to have to find out," Graham said. "I don't want to predict nothing, but I know we do have a good squad and I'm expecting big things."
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