As Saquon Barkley enters the ninth season of his career, the star running back is concentrating on his physical longevity with a specialized offseason approach. After rushing for 1,140 yards in a strong 2024 campaign, Barkley is looking to bounce back by changing his training methods. Instead of focusing on lifting heavy weights, he is using tools such as trampolines and hula hoops to enhance his coordination and joint health. Barkley shared on the NFL Network show “The Insiders” that he is excited about this new routine, emphasizing his goal to become a better athlete and remain healthy for an Eagles team eager to move beyond a disappointing wild-card exit.
He noted that while he still possesses the same drive he had when he was younger, it is now directed in “a different way.”
According to a report from NBC Sports, Barkley was one of several offensive players who did not perform at their previous levels in 2025, leading to Sean Mannion replacing Kevin Patullo as the offensive coordinator.
Barkley has already spoken with Mannion and expressed great enthusiasm for “the challenge of putting yourself in a new system.” Although they have not yet delved into the specific intricacies of the playbook, Barkley mentioned that this scheme feels unique compared to any he has played in before.
“I’m super excited about it,” he said, adding that he hasn't “really come across a system like this” and finds it “refreshing” to learn something new in Year 9.
This period of transition also involves addressing rumors linking A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots. Speaking to Dan Graziano of ESPN, Barkley revealed that Brown has always been a “huge Patriots fan” and was recently like “a kid in a candy store” while catching passes from Tom Brady.
Although Barkley mentioned that Brown’s viral wink was just him “trolling,” he confirmed the receiver's lifelong fandom for the New England organization. Despite the speculation from outside, Barkley is focused on the internal growth and new leadership in Philadelphia as they prepare for the 2026 season.
