After New York Giants traded Odell Beckham Jr. to the Cleveland Browns, running back and reigning NFL Rookie of the Year Saquon Barkley is next in line to become the face of this franchise. And not only this, but Barkley will have to take on an even bigger offensive load in 2019.
While this might seem as overwhelming expectations from a 22-year-old, Barkley is ready to expand his role on the team. Speaking about the aftermath of Beckham’s trade and his future role on the Giants with NJ.com, he said that his main goal is to “grow as a leader more.”
“I have to grow as a leader more” – said Barkley. “Whether it’s being a vocal leader or leading by example, it’s a team effort. We have to have other players grow as leaders, continue to believe in each other.”
Barkley also revealed that Beckham talked with him after the trade and provided some advice on how to “handle stuff” in the NFL.
“We talked over Facetime, he had just gotten traded, so I don’t think he was really happy about it,” – he added. “He just gave me some advice about how to handle stuff in the league. He was the same old big brother to me that he’s always been.”
After being drafted second overall in 2018 NFL Draft by New York Giants, Saquon Barkley went on to have a monster first year in the league. He ended 2018 with 1,307 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns while also adding 91 receptions for 721 yards and four touchdowns.
Besides breaking several Giants franchise and NFL records, Barkley also earned a Pro Bowl appearance and was named Pepsi NFL Rookie of the Year and AP’s NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
