While injuries have challenged him, his resilience and determination have defined his journey. If he can stay healthy and perform at an elite level, he has the potential to solidify his place among the all-time great running backs
At just 27 years old, Barkley still has plenty of football ahead of him. Whether he leads the Eagles to a Super Bowl or cements his name in franchise history, his story is far from over.
One thing is certain—Saquon Barkley’s impact on the game of football is undeniable.
Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon’s relationship is a testament to love, loyalty, and resilience.
Having been together for nearly eight years, they have built a beautiful family and navigated the challenges of fame and professional sports together.
While they may not be married yet, their commitment to each other is evident, making them one of the most admired couples in the sports world.
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Table of Contents
Saquon Barkley: Who Is He?
Saquon Barkley was born on February 9, 1997, in the Bronx, New York. However, his family later relocated to Whitehall Township, Pennsylvania, where he attended Whitehall High School.1
Growing up, Barkley idolized former Philadelphia Eagles running back Brian Westbrook, a player he would later join in franchise history.
At Whitehall High School, Barkley showcased his athleticism early on, excelling in football and track and field.
As a senior, he rushed for 1,856 yards and 31 touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the top high school running backs in the nation.
His performances earned him offers from multiple NCAA Division I programs, but he ultimately committed to Penn State University.
God is great ‼️‼️ 1 more to go… See ya in New Orleans 🤞🏾
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) January 27, 2025
Early Life and High School Career
Barkley played college football at Penn State from 2015 to 2017, making an immediate impact as a freshman. In his first season, he rushed for 1,076 yards and seven touchdowns, setting the stage for a stellar collegiate career.
His breakout performance came against Ohio State, where he rushed for 194 yards against a formidable defense.
His sophomore season in 2016 was even more impressive, as he amassed 1,496 rushing yards, 18 rushing touchdowns, and 402 receiving yards. Barkley’s explosive speed, agility, and power made him one of the most dynamic players in college football.
He was named the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year and helped lead Penn State to a Big Ten Championship victory over Wisconsin.
During his junior year in 2017, Barkley solidified his status as an elite prospect, finishing with 1,271 rushing yards, 18 rushing touchdowns, and 632 receiving yards. He also made a significant impact on special teams, returning two kickoffs for touchdowns.
He won multiple awards, including the Paul Hornung Award, given to the most versatile player in college football. Following the season, Barkley declared for the 2018 NFL Draft.
Saquon Barkley: Career
NFL Draft and Rookie Season with the Giants
Barkley entered the 2018 NFL Draft as one of the most highly touted running back prospects in years.2
The New York Giants selected him with the second overall pick, making him the highest-drafted running back since Reggie Bush in 2006. His selection came with high expectations, and he wasted no time living up to them.
In his rookie season, Barkley was a sensation, rushing for 1,307 yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 721 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns.
His ability to break tackles and create explosive plays made him an instant star. He was named the 2018 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and earned his first Pro Bowl selection.
Injury Setbacks and Comeback Efforts
After a historic rookie campaign, Barkley’s career faced some adversity due to injuries. In 2019, he suffered a high ankle sprain that sidelined him for three games.
Despite the setback, he still managed to rush for 1,003 yards and six touchdowns, proving his resilience.
The biggest challenge came in 2020 when Barkley tore his ACL in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears.
The devastating injury forced him to miss the entire season, raising concerns about his long-term durability. However, Barkley remained determined and committed to his rehabilitation.
In 2021, Barkley returned to action, but he struggled to regain his pre-injury form, finishing the season with 593 rushing yards and two touchdowns. While the Giants’ offensive struggles contributed to his diminished production, questions about his explosiveness began to surface.
Resurgence and 2022 Pro Bowl Selection
Despite the setbacks, Barkley bounced back in 2022 with a phenomenal season. Under new head coach Brian Daboll, the Giants revamped their offensive scheme, allowing Barkley to shine once again.
He finished the year with 1,312 rushing yards, 10 rushing touchdowns, and 338 receiving yards.
His resurgence played a crucial role in the Giants’ playoff push, as they reached the postseason for the first time since 2016.
Barkley’s efforts earned him his second career Pro Bowl selection, reaffirming his status as one of the league’s top running backs.
Saquon Barkley: Departure from the Giants
Following his stellar 2022 season, Barkley entered the 2023 offseason seeking a long-term contract extension.3
However, negotiations between Barkley and the Giants’ front office did not go as planned. The team placed the franchise tag on him, preventing him from hitting free agency, but the two sides failed to reach a long-term agreement.
Barkley played the 2023 season on the franchise tag, finishing with 962 rushing yards and six touchdowns despite missing some games due to injuries. As the 2024 offseason approached, it became clear that Barkley and the Giants were headed for a split.
Signing with the Philadelphia Eagles
On March 11, 2024, Barkley made a major career move by signing a three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The deal included $26 million in guaranteed money, making him one of the highest-paid running backs in the league.
Joining the Eagles was a significant decision for Barkley, as he returned to the state where he built his college legacy. Philadelphia, known for its strong offensive line and dynamic offense, provided him with an opportunity to maximize his potential.
Expectations with the Eagles
Barkley’s arrival in Philadelphia brought excitement and optimism to the Eagles’ fanbase.
Head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized that Barkley would be a focal point in the offense, pairing him with quarterback Jalen Hurts to create a lethal rushing attack.
With the Eagles’ elite offensive line, Barkley is expected to thrive in a system that emphasizes power running and explosive plays.
If he stays healthy, he has the potential to return to his Pro Bowl form and help lead the Eagles on a deep playoff run.
Playing Style and Strengths
- Barkley is known for his rare combination of speed, power, and agility.
- He possesses exceptional vision and an explosive burst that allows him to break big plays.
- His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a versatile weapon in both the running and passing game.
- His signature move, the jump cut, enables him to evade defenders effortlessly.
- Despite concerns about his durability, Barkley remains one of the most talented and dynamic running backs in the NFL when fully healthy.
- Beyond football, Barkley has made a significant impact off the field.
- He has been actively involved in charitable work, including initiatives supporting underprivileged youth and communities.
- His leadership and professionalism have earned him respect both within and outside the NFL.
- Additionally, Barkley has utilized his platform to advocate for player rights and fair contracts, becoming a voice for athletes navigating the business side of professional sports.
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Who is Saquon Barkley’s Girlfriend?
Saquon Barkley, the talented NFL running back, has been in a long-term relationship with Anna Congdon.
Their love story has captivated fans, as they have built a strong bond over the years while navigating Barkley’s football career and their growing family.
Anna Congdon was born and raised in Forest City, Pennsylvania, where she attended Forest City Regional High School. During her high school years, she showcased her athleticism and leadership skills as the captain of the girls’ basketball team.
Her passion for sports and team spirit were evident from a young age, making her a dynamic individual with a competitive edge.
After completing high school, Congdon pursued higher education at Penn State University. It was during her time at Penn State that she met Saquon Barkley, who was making waves as one of the top college football players in the country. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and they made their romance public in February 2017.
How Did Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon Meet?
Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon’s love story began at Penn State University. Barkley, who was gaining national attention for his exceptional performances on the football field, crossed paths with Congdon, and the two quickly developed a strong connection.
Their relationship flourished despite Barkley’s demanding schedule as a college athlete and later as an NFL star.
As of January 2025, Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon have been dating for nearly eight years. Their relationship has withstood the challenges of fame, professional obligations, and personal growth, proving their commitment to each other.
The couple made their relationship Instagram official in February 2017, a moment that was widely celebrated by their fans.
Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon’s Family Life
How Many Kids Do Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon Have?
Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon are proud parents of two children. Their daughter, Jada Clare Barkley, was born in 2018, making her the first addition to their family.
In September 2022, they welcomed their second child, a son named Saquon Barkley Jr. The couple often shares glimpses of their family life, highlighting their dedication to raising their children with love and care.
As a professional athlete, Saquon Barkley has a demanding schedule that requires intense training, travel, and commitment to his team. Despite these challenges, he has always prioritized his role as a father.
Anna Congdon plays a crucial role in managing their household and supporting Barkley throughout his career while also focusing on her own aspirations.
Saquon Barkley: Paid Partnership
Saquon Barkley teamed up with the OTC sleep aid brand The Unisom in a paid partnership and promoted on his social media profile.
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Where is Anna Congdon From?
- Anna Congdon hails from Forest City, Pennsylvania. Her small-town upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of community, values, and perseverance.
- Despite being in the public eye due to her relationship with Barkley, Congdon has remained grounded, embracing both her roots and the new experiences that come with being a part of an NFL family.
- Anna Congdon has a significant presence on social media, where she shares snippets of her personal life, family moments, and interests.
- As of January 2025, she has amassed 108K followers on Instagram, where she goes by the username @annacongdon. On Twitter, she has around 5.4K followers under the handle @anacongda.
- Congdon’s social media accounts offer a mix of lifestyle content, family updates, and personal reflections.
- While she maintains a relatively private life compared to some high-profile WAGs (wives and girlfriends of athletes), she occasionally posts pictures of her children, moments with Barkley, and glimpses into her daily routine.
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