Saquon Barkley, following a historic season with the Philadelphia Eagles, has been selected as the cover athlete for Madden NFL 26. After a career-defining year that saw him rush for over 2,000 yards and play a key role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, Barkley’s star has never shone brighter.
However, in a recent appearance on Chris Long’s Green Light Podcast, Barkley’s comments about his long-term future in the NFL introduced a surprising level of uncertainty. Despite his current peak performance, he shared that his retirement might come unexpectedly, echoing the shock exit of one of his idols, Barry Sanders.
Barkley Hints at Sudden Retirement, Drawing Comparisons to Barry Sanders’ Exit
When asked about his potential retirement plans, Barkley confessed that he could be the type to walk away from the game suddenly, whether it be in one, two, or four years. He emphasized that he wouldn’t lose his competitive spirit, but hinted that he may one day wake up and decide it’s over.
This admission caught many off guard, especially coming on the heels of his most successful season. His admiration for Barry Sanders, who famously retired at his prime, clearly influences this mindset, raising concerns among fans and analysts about how long Barkley might stay in the league.
Saquon Barkley (NFL)Barkley’s reference to Barry Sanders invites an eerie comparison. Sanders retired abruptly in 1998 despite being in peak form and within reach of the NFL’s all-time rushing record. His decision shocked fans and left a void in the league.
Barkley, though not yet near Sanders’ career rushing yard total of 15,269, has shown he could follow a similar path. Currently with 7,216 career rushing yards and four years remaining on his Eagles contract, Barkley still has plenty of football left—but his comments signal he may not be chasing longevity.
Barkley’s Future Uncertain Despite Eagles’ Commitment and Record-Breaking 2025 Performance
Philadelphia’s front office certainly expects Barkley to be a central figure for years to come. Following his incredible 2025 season, the team rewarded him with a two-year extension worth $41.2 million in new money. That kind of investment suggests a long-term vision, banking on Barkley continuing to deliver elite performances.
Yet, his admission of possibly stepping away early disrupts that narrative. While there are still years left on his deal, Barkley’s personal timeline may not align with what fans and executives hope for.
For Eagles fans still reveling in the team’s Super Bowl triumph, Barkley’s remarks are a sobering reminder to appreciate greatness in the present. Though he isn’t planning to retire tomorrow, the possibility that he might walk away while still at his peak is real.
Barkley’s openness adds a layer of fragility to his already celebrated career. His place on the Madden cover immortalizes his 2025 brilliance, but as he himself suggested, nothing is guaranteed. Fans should savor every moment of his time in Philadelphia, because it may not last as long as expected.
