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Stars in any sport often start a decline once they approach the age of 30. Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley looks to go against that concept going into the 2026 NFL season.
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Barkley took part in an interview with The Athletic, discussing multiple topics about his career accomplishments and projections. Turning 30 next February, he cited Barry Sanders and other NFL Hall of Famers who continued playing remarkable after turning 30, looking to join them in the process.
“The competitor in me, who I am to the core, I want to say F*** everybody. You don’t think I’m able to put myself in that category? Why can’t I put myself in that category for another five more years? That’s the mentality I have,” Barkley said.
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“When I look at the guys that I want to be in the category with when I’m done playing, they all played well when they got older,” Barkley said. “I think if you look at Walter (Payton), like the late 20s, a little bit into the early 30s, they still were playing at a high level. I think Barry’s a great example. Barry’s best year was when he was 29. Not saying that necessarily I’ll have my best (year) at 29. He had 1,500 yards the next year, and took a tackle for loss, and he had (1,491) yards when he was 30, and left on top.”
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Saquon Barkley knows he still has a lot in the tank as one of the best running backs in the league. This season will be important for him as he seeks to have a resurgent campaign for the Eagles in 2026.
Barkley dominated in 2024 with 2,283 scrimmage yards and 15 touchdowns. Those historic numbers went down the next season, falling to 1,413 yards and nine touchdowns throughout 2025.
Philadelphia will attempt to improve on its 11-6 record from 2025 and make the playoffs for the sixth consecutive season. It also marks the first season since 2021 without wide receiver A.J. Brown, following his trade to the New England Patriots.
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The Eagles’ campaign will get underway at home when they host the Washington Commanders. That matchup will commence on Sept. 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET.
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