BREAKING NEWS: Emmitt Smith Doesn’t Want Saquon Barkley to Stay with Philadelphia Eagles: “Eagles Shouldn’t Let Saquon Barkley Play Anymore, He’s Not…”
In a surprising and controversial moment that has quickly stirred debate across the NFL community, Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith made headlines with sharp criticism directed at Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. Speaking during a recent podcast appearance, Smith voiced his disapproval of Barkley’s fit with the Eagles, going as far as to say that “the Eagles shouldn’t let Saquon Barkley play anymore.”
While Smith clarified that his comments weren’t meant as a personal attack, the statement shocked fans and analysts alike, given Barkley’s status as one of the league’s top talents and his high-profile move to Philadelphia during the 2024 offseason.
Emmitt Smith’s Explosive Take
Appearing on a segment of “Legends Unfiltered”, Smith was asked about the state of running backs in the modern NFL and the shifting dynamics of player movement. When the conversation turned to Barkley’s transition from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles, Smith didn’t hold back.
“I’m gonna say it because no one else will — the Eagles shouldn’t let Saquon Barkley play anymore. He’s not the answer for Philly,” Smith stated. “He’s not a natural fit for that system, and I don’t see the commitment, the passion that city demands.”
The NFL legend, who spent the bulk of his career with the Dallas Cowboys — the Eagles’ fierce NFC East rivals — went on to say that Barkley’s presence in the Eagles locker room might be “a distraction, not a solution.”
Backlash and Fan Reactions
Predictably, Smith’s comments lit a fire across social media and talk shows. Eagles fans immediately defended Barkley, with many accusing Smith of bias due to his Cowboys affiliation. The hashtag #SupportSaquon trended in Philadelphia, with fans posting clips of Barkley’s strong performances in recent games.
One viral response from a fan read:
“Emmitt Smith is a legend, but this is pure Cowboys hate. Barkley has been balling out for us. Don’t bring that negativity here.”
Sports analysts also weighed in. Shannon Sharpe responded during a broadcast of Nightcap:
“I love Emmitt, but this was a low blow. Saquon is producing. He’s healthy, motivated, and in a great situation with Hurts and that O-line. This is just old rivalry heat.”
Barkley’s Role with the Eagles So Far
Since joining the Eagles, Saquon Barkley has made an immediate impact. He’s rushed for over 800 yards and tallied 9 total touchdowns through 11 games in the 2025 season. More importantly, he has added another dimension to an already dynamic Eagles offense, helping quarterback Jalen Hurts with both pass protection and screen plays.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised Barkley earlier this season, calling him a “team-first player who elevates everyone around him.”
“He works hard, he leads by example, and he’s made some clutch plays. I don’t know what more you could ask from a player.”
Barkley Responds Calmly
When asked about Smith’s comments during a post-practice press conference, Barkley maintained his composure.
“Look, I respect Emmitt. He’s one of the best to ever do it. But I’m focused on what we’re building here in Philly. The team believes in me, and I believe in myself.”
Barkley’s teammates also rallied behind him, with wide receiver DeVonta Smith posting a photo of Barkley with the caption: “Our guy. Always.”
The Bigger Picture: Old Rivalries, New Eras
Some insiders believe that Smith’s comments are less about Barkley and more about the Cowboys-Eagles rivalry, which has only intensified over the last decade. With both teams regularly contending for the NFC East crown, every personnel move is heavily scrutinized.
“This could just be a Hall of Fame Cowboy stirring the pot,” said ESPN’s Adam Schefter. “But it touched a nerve because Saquon is thriving in Philly, and some old-school guys don’t love that.”
Others have noted that Smith’s criticism might stem from a broader frustration over how running backs are being used in today’s pass-heavy NFL — something that Barkley has been outspoken about as well.
Final Thoughts
While Emmitt Smith’s remarks have certainly caused a stir, they’ve also highlighted Barkley’s importance to the Eagles and the passion that still fuels one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Barkley remains focused on helping Philadelphia chase another Super Bowl, and if anything, this controversy may have only strengthened the bond between him and the fanbase.
As the Eagles continue their playoff push, all eyes will be on Barkley — not just for his performance, but for how he responds under pressure. And if his track record is any indication, the best may still be yet to come.
