Saquon Barkley knows a thing or two about how to work a crowd, even at a charity softball game.
The Eagles' superstar was at DeVonta Smith's Allentown bash. And he was swapping cleats for spikes amidst homers and autographs. The vibe was pure Philly summer... hot dogs, cold drinks, and that familiar championship buzz still hanging in the air.
Honestly, it felt like the calm before the NFL storm. Then, chatting with streamer Janky Rondo, Barkley dropped some serious gridiron gasoline.
Barkley confirmed the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys never even dialed his number during 2024 free agency. "Nah, never heard a word from the Commanders or Dallas," Barkley stated bluntly. Then came the kicker, sharp as a slider painting the corner.
The Grand Verdict Fueling NFC East Rivalries
"That’s why ‘BTA’ when I see them." For the uninitiated, BTA means "Belt To A--." Consider the gauntlet thrown down for 2025. But this isn't just offseason noise.
Remember the fire Barkley brought last year? It was fueled partly by the Giants letting him walk. He scorched the earth for over 2,500 total yards, powering Philly's Super Bowl run. Against the NFC rivals?
Saquon Barkley says that the #Commanders did not reach out to him when he was a free agent
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) June 28, 2025
“Nah, never heard a word from Commanders or Dallas. That’s why it’s BTA when I see them”
(via:_jankyrondoclips on TikTok) pic.twitter.com/C35QkO2jrL
He averaged 116.5 rushing yards against Dallas. Against Washington? He decimated them for 146, 150, and 118 yards across three meetings. And added 10 total touchdowns. These clearly were statements. Meanwhile, the Eagles' brass must be grinning hard.
Why the Eagles Love Barkley's Snub
Landing Barkley was already a coup. Discovering he carries this specific, personal vendetta against two division foes? That’s like finding out your new sports car also makes coffee.
It just adds an extra gear. Philly knows Barkley transforms from great to historic when he’s got a chip on his shoulder. And the Commanders and Cowboys? They handed him a whole bag.
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The Eagles aim to be the first NFC East repeat champs since they did it during 2001-2004. Barkley’s "BTA" mentality injects pure nitro into that rivalry engine. He doesn’t just want to beat Dallas and Washington; he wants to make them deeply regret passing on him. Twice a year. Minimum.