Saquon Barkley’s biggest fan, his longtime partner Anna Congdon, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram following his record-setting performance Sunday during the Eagles’ dominant 41-7 win over the Dallas Cowboys. Congdon, who has been with Barkley since their days at Penn State and shares two children with him, took to her Instagram Stories to celebrate his remarkable achievement of surpassing 2,000 rushing yards in a single season.
Barkley became just the ninth running back in NFL history to reach this milestone.
“You outshine the morning sun,” Congdon wrote, expressing her pride for Barkley, 27.
In a follow-up post, Congdon shared an NFL graphic celebrating Barkley’s milestone. The animated image featured Barkley leaping over “2K” letters, symbolizing his incredible accomplishment.
Barkley’s Historic Game
Barkley crossed the 2,000-yard threshold in the fourth quarter with an electrifying 23-yard run. He finished the game with 31 carries for 167 yards, pushing his season total to 2,005 rushing yards. He’s now just 100 yards shy of Eric Dickerson’s longstanding single-season record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984.
This historic performance also helped the Eagles clinch the NFC East title, leaving them with an important decision: Should they rest their starters in Week 18 against the New York Giants or let them play in hopes of securing Barkley’s shot at history?
“Whatever [Coach Nick Sirianni’s] decision is, I’m all for it,” Barkley said in a postgame interview. “If his mindset is to go out and try it, we’ll go out and try it. If his mindset is to rest and get ready for this run, I’m all for it, too.”
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A New Chapter in Philadelphia
Barkley’s record-breaking season is particularly notable because it’s his first year with the Eagles. After spending six seasons with the New York Giants, the team that drafted him second overall in 2018, Barkley made the surprising move to sign with the Eagles during free agency this past March. He agreed to a three-year, $37.75 million deal, a move that added fuel to one of the NFL’s most heated rivalries.
Despite his controversial switch, Barkley has proven to be an invaluable asset to Philadelphia, racking up 13 rushing touchdowns and two receiving scores in 16 games. His consistent dominance on the field has catapulted him into MVP conversations, a rare feat for a running back in today’s NFL.
A Heartfelt Partnership
Congdon’s support has been a constant source of inspiration for Barkley throughout his career. The couple met during their college years at Penn State, where Barkley’s standout performances caught national attention. They’ve since built a life together, raising two children while navigating the challenges of the NFL spotlight.
Barkley’s move to Philadelphia marked a significant chapter in both his professional and personal life, and Congdon has been by his side every step of the way. Her touching message after Sunday’s game underscores the deep bond they share.
What’s Next for Barkley and the Eagles?
With one regular-season game remaining, all eyes are on Coach Sirianni’s decision regarding Barkley’s playing status for Week 18. The Eagles, already secured as NFC East champions, may choose to rest key players, including Barkley, to preserve their health for the playoffs.
However, the chance to break Dickerson’s record adds an intriguing wrinkle to the decision-making process.
As the playoffs approach, Barkley remains focused on the bigger picture. “This season has been special,” he said. “It’s about the team, and I’ll do whatever it takes to help us win.”
Whether or not he suits up in Week 18, Barkley’s remarkable season has solidified his place in NFL history and endeared him even further to Eagles fans.
His journey from New York to Philadelphia, combined with his record-breaking achievements, sets the stage for a postseason run full of promise.
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