Getty Image / Tim Nwachukwu
For six years, Saquon Barkley was the face of the New York Giants. For five of those years, Daniel Jones was the quarterback that many thought was holding both Barkley and the franchise back.
Saquon Barkley moved on this offseason, signing with NFC East rivals Philadelphia. But, he’s still got love and respect for Daniel Jones, despite Jones’ struggles during his time there and in the Giants’ 2024 opener on Sunday.
While Saquon Barkley scored three touchdowns and nearly a fourth in the Philadelphia’s season-opening win, Daniel Jones struggled mightily for the New York Giants as they were blown out, 28-6, by the Minnesota Vikings. Jones threw two costly interceptions and he’s essentially a lame duck starting quarterback until after the season when the Giants can get out of his contract.
But, after Barkley’s success with the Eagles, he didn’t forget about his old quarterback. He made sure to leave him some words of encouragement. Here’s Sports Illustrated with more.
“I was there for six years, got a lot of friends there, so no bad feelings for those guys. Hopefully, they’re able to bounce back,” said Barkley via Tim McManus of ESPN.
“Yeah, I talked to him. I’m really good friends with DJ. Obviously, didn’t have the game that he wanted. From me, was just letting him know that––’just go out there and play free,'” he said when asked about what he told Jones.
Saquon Barkley will make his return to MetLife Stadium on October 20.