It didn't take long for Saquon Barkley to send panic into the hearts of Philadelphia Eagle fans everywhere this week.
On the Green Light Podcast with Chris Long, Barkley stated that he could see himself retiring in the near future and that people would be surprised when he made that decision.
As this is an organization looking to compete for Super Bowls in the next few seasons, fans don't want to hear that.
So …
During mandatory minicamp this week, Barkley had the chance to walk back some of his retirement comments from that podcast. And that is precisely what he did.
“I don’t think I’ll ever lose the passion for the game,” he said. “The retiring thing, I think that caught a little fire on social media. I don’t plan on retiring any time soon. The question was asked of me, and I don’t have a set date or how many years I want to play.
"I would love to play this game as long as God lets me and my body lets me, so that’s really it.”
Barkley became the highest-paid running back in NFL history this offseason after a franchise record of 2,005 rushing yards during the 2024 regular season.
The Offensive Player of the Year is obviously a key part of Philadelphia's success.
The shelf life for a running back is relatively short compared to other positions in the league. Barkley understands that, as does every other guy who lines up in that spot.
The All-Pro hopes Philadelphia's elite offensive line will keep him upright and protected for another big season in 2025 and beyond.
Retirement talk will have to wait. And so will fan panic.