Former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Saquon Barkley claps back at Giants legend's criticism

By Orlando Silva | Last updated 3/11/24

The first day of 2024 NFL free agency didn't disappoint, as we saw high-profile names changing teams.

Saquon Barkley is arguably the biggest name that changed teams on Monday, leaving the New York Giants and joining the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles.

Giants legend Tiki Barber had a strong reaction to this move, claiming that Barkley was 'dead' to him and the team fan base.

Former Giants running back Tiki Barber while on WFAN today on Saquon Barkley signing with the Eagles:

“You’re dead to us, Saquon. Good luck, you’re dead to me.” pic.twitter.com/vKv3wOsXc5
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) March 11, 2024

These words didn't sit well with Barkley, who fired back at the retired running back, calling him a 'hater' and sending a clear warning to the former All-Pro.

@TikiBarber you been a hater since I got to New York … and all the “Dead to me” talk don’t smile in my face when you see me
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) March 11, 2024

This hasn't been the first time Barber has attacked Barkley. As soon as reports linked Barkley with the Eagles, Barber told him he would make a big mistake if he joined Philadelphia.

None of that mattered to the former No. 2 overall draft pick, who is finishing a chapter in his career and starting fresh in Philadelphia. The six-year veteran leaves a big mark on the Giants, but now it's time to feast with a team that can maximize his talents.

It must be painful for a lot of fans to see Barkley go, but the running back always let people know he wanted to be a Giant for life. They had worked a new deal last offseason, with Barkley staying one more season playing at MetLife Stadium.

This offseason, however, things have worked differently, and Barkley is set to join the Eagles after signing a three-year deal for $37.75 million.

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