NFL reviewing whether Eagles tampered with ex-Giant Saquon Barkley

The NFL is taking a look at whether the Philadelphia Eagles tampered with former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley before the start of free agency.

Per league rules, teams are permitted to enter into negotiations with agents and representatives of pending free agents during the two-day legal tampering period. However, teams cannot speak to players directly unless those players are self-represented.

The Eagles are accused of violating those rules.

During a recent press conference, Penn State head coach James Franklin, who is very close with Barkley, revealed that Eagles general manager Howie Roseman had spoken to Barkley directly.

“He said that was one of the first things that Howie said to him on the phone as part of his sales pitch,” Franklin said. “Not only the Philadelphia Eagles and that that but also the connection with Penn State and the fan base as well. So just a really cool opportunity.”

Although the Giants have declined to comment on the matter, the NFL will look into the potential tampering.

Per a league source, the NFL is looking into potential tampering by the Eagles and the Falcons related to the free-agent signings of Saquon Barkley and Kirk Cousins.

— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) March 14, 2024

The Eagles, who signed Barkley to a three-year deal worth $37.7 million, have denied the allegations.

If the NFL deems the Eagles guilty of tampering, they could be fined and/or stripped of draft picks.