Saquon Barkley’s leadership skills were on full display during his encounter with Jayden Daniels (Image: Getty)
Saquon Barkley demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities immediately after securing a berth by encouraging rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to “keep going”. . Despite the pressure, the Philadelphia Eagles running back delivered an exceptional display in the NFC Championship Game against the Washington Commanders.
It was a match that saw the Eagles triumph with a score of 55-23, earning them a second chance at Super Bowl glory in three years and setting up a thrilling rematch with the Kansas City Chiefs. Barkley’s performance included monumental contributions of 118 yards on 15 carries resulting in three touchdowns, solidifying what’s been an outstanding inaugural season with Philadelphia since his departure from the New York Giants.
The 27-year-old’s prowess on the field is well-documented, but it’s his magnetic presence in the locker room and innate leadership that often garner high praise from peers. These commendable traits were captured for all to witness just after the Eagles clinched their victory.
He shared a moment with Daniels, offering a handshake amid postgame celebrations. In footage released by the NFL, Daniels was shown mic’d up and sharing a hug with Barkley, who advised the younger quarterback to “keep going,” although the ensuing comments were censored in the clip.
Daniels was then subject to the ultimate compliment from Eagles’ wide receiver DeVonta Smith, who told the former Heisman Trophy winner: “You one of the baddest (expletive) in the league.” The Commanders’ breakout talent is leading the charge as the frontrunner for the 2024 NFL Rookie of the Year award, having been instrumental in turning around a team long-mired in underachievement.
He propelled the Commanders to a stellar 12-5 record during the regular season, marking their highest victory tally since the glory days of 1991. Daniels racked up an impressive 3,568 passing yards, notched 25 touchdowns against nine interceptions, and added a commanding 891 yards and six scores on the ground.
Barkley embraced Jayden Daniels after the NFC Championship Game (Image: Eric Hartline- Imagine Images)
Yet even with a 255-yard, two-touchdown performance including a dash to the endzone himself, it wasn’t enough to topple Barkley and the powerhouse Eagles, who will be hunting for vengeance come February 9, quite aptly, the very day he turns 28.
In conversation with NFL correspondent Erin Andrews, Barkley reflected on his tenure with the Giants, acknowledging that despite the absence of triumphs, it was immensely formative for what lies ahead.
“I look at it as a blessing. I’m in a new chapter,” he declared. “I’m thankful for all of those guys in New York for the six years I had there. I learned a lot.”