BREAKING: Eagles’ Saquon Barkley speaks out on NFL’s surprise rule change — ‘It’s taking the game in the wrong direction’ In a candid post-practice interview, Phialadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley didn’t hold back when asked about the league’s latest rule change. Calling it “a move that could change the way football is played forever,” Saquon Barkley argued that the decision hurts the physical edge of the game and could change the competitive balance across the NFL. Fans are divided right now — some agree it’s about safety, others believe Saquon Barkley is right and the game is losing its soul. Either way, this rule change just got a lot more controversial in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley made headlines on Tuesday after offering a strong and emotional response to the NFL’s latest surprise rule change. Speaking to reporters after practice, Barkley didn’t mince words, calling the new rule “a move that could change the way football is played forever.”

While the specific rule change has not yet been fully detailed by league officials, early reports suggest it relates to restrictions on certain types of physical contact — particularly those involving short-yardage situations and special teams play. For Barkley, a player known for his physical running style and fierce competitiveness, the decision strikes at the very core of what makes football what it is.

“This game has always been about toughness, grit, and physicality,” Barkley said. “I understand protecting players, I really do — but at some point, we have to ask: are we still playing football, or are we turning it into something else? I think this is taking the game in the wrong direction.”

Barkley’s comments immediately sparked heated debate across the NFL community. Many fans and analysts took to social media to express support for the veteran star, agreeing that football is slowly being stripped of its physical identity. Others pushed back, arguing that the rule is necessary to reduce injuries and promote long-term player health.

In Philadelphia, a city known for its tough, no-nonsense approach to football, the backlash to the rule change — and the support for Barkley’s stance — has been especially loud. Local sports talk shows lit up with callers praising Barkley for “saying what everyone’s thinking,” while others called the NFL “out of touch” with what fans and players actually want.

While the league has yet to issue a formal response to Barkley’s criticism, it’s clear his comments have added fuel to an already growing fire. As preseason continues and more players weigh in, this rule change could quickly become one of the most divisive issues of the 2025 season.

One thing is certain: Saquon Barkley has no intention of staying quiet — and neither do the fans in Philadelphia.