Eagles end debate and reportedly add Saquon Barkley by way of three-year deal

Saquon Barkley joins the Philadelphia Eagles. Can you believe it?
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles / Cooper Neill/GettyImages
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Well... Let's just say this. Roster building isn't some cookie-cutter process that can be done one way. We know the Philadelphia Eagles like building through the trenches. We know the NFL as a whole devalues tailbacks, but Saquon Barkley isn't any ordinary running back.

Have you heard? According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Birds are signing the former Penn State star to a three-year deal that will pay him $37.75 million. His contract could also pay him upwards of $46.75M and includes $26M fully guaranteed at signing. It appears we can lay certain ideas and theories to rest.

The Eagles actually paid a running back a huge salary. Saquon Barkley is coming to Philly.

We all asked if Philly would pay a huge salary to a tailback. We doubted they'd do so. We doubted for obvious reasons, but again, Saquon is far from ordinary.

We're well aware of his resume. We know the star power he brings. He also satisfies so many issues the Birds had with their rushing attack last season.

Why wasn't Rashaad Penny on the field more? Well, it's simple. He can't pass block. Why was Kenneth Gainwell on the field so much? That's also an easy question to answer. He CAN pass block. Saquon's addition gives the Eagles someone who can perform both jobs well. He also gives them the most talented runner they have had since LeSean McCoy left AND another weapon for the passing game.

Say what you will. Some said this was a great idea. Others opposed, but the deal now seems to be done in principle. All that's left is for the contract to be signed. That should be done when the new league year begins on March 13th, so we feel like we can say this officially.

Welcome to Philly Saquon!