Philadelphia Eagles Star Running Back Saquon Barkley Addresses Backlash Over Engagement to Longtime Girlfriend: ‘I Don’t See Color’

Philadelphia Eagles’ star running back Saquon Barkley is making headlines off the field after announcing his engagement to longtime girlfriend Anna Williams. While many fans congratulated the couple, Barkley also faced unexpected backlash on social media, with some comments focusing on the couple’s different racial backgrounds.

The Engagement Announcement

Saquon Barkley, known for his electrifying performances and leadership on the field, shared the news of his engagement last weekend via Instagram. The post featured photos of Barkley proposing to Williams on a scenic overlook, surrounded by friends and family. “She said yes! Can’t wait to spend forever with you,” Barkley captioned the post.

The announcement quickly went viral, drawing thousands of likes and congratulatory messages from teammates, celebrities, and fans. However, amid the celebration, a wave of negative comments emerged, with some users criticizing the relationship because Barkley and Williams come from different racial backgrounds.

Barkley’s Response to the Backlash

In a candid interview following practice on Monday, Barkley addressed the criticism head-on. “I’ve seen some of the comments, and honestly, it’s disappointing,” Barkley said. “Anna and I have been together for years. She’s my best friend, my partner, and none of that has anything to do with the color of our skin.”

He continued, “I don’t see color. I see the person she is, the love we share, and the life we’re building together. We’re focused on each other and our future. That’s what matters most.”

Barkley emphasized that he and Williams are committed to supporting each other through challenges, including public scrutiny. “We know who we are, and we’re proud of our love,” he added.

Support From The Eagles and NFL Community

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni and several teammates voiced their support for Barkley and Williams. “Saquon is a leader on and off the field. We stand behind him and celebrate his happiness,” Sirianni said in a statement.

NFL players across the league also weighed in, sharing messages of solidarity and reminding fans that love should be celebrated, not judged.

Social Media Reaction

While some negative comments persist, the overwhelming response has been positive. Fans have rallied around Barkley and Williams, posting messages of encouragement and sharing their own stories of interracial relationships.

One fan wrote, “Love is love. Congratulations to Saquon and Anna!” Another commented, “Ignore the hate. Wishing you both a lifetime of happiness.”

Conclusion

Saquon Barkley’s engagement has sparked a larger conversation about love, acceptance, and the challenges that public figures face. By responding with grace and honesty, Barkley has shown that true love transcends boundaries—and that the only thing that matters is the bond between two people.

As Barkley prepares for another season with the Eagles, he does so with the support of his fiancée and a growing community of fans who celebrate love in all its forms.