The NFL draft is an exciting time for football fans and teams alike. It’s a chance for teams to add new talent to their rosters and for players to fulfill their dreams of playing in the NFL. In 2018, one player stood out above the rest – Saquon Barkley. The then-Giants GM, Dave Gettleman, even went as far as to say that Barkley was “touched by the hand of God”. And looking back, it’s safe to say that he was right.
Barkley was the unanimous best player in the 2018 draft, and for good reason. He had an impressive college career at Penn State, racking up over 3,800 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns in just three seasons. But it wasn’t just his stats that caught the attention of NFL teams. It was his explosiveness, agility, and overall athleticism that made him a highly sought-after prospect.
When the New York Giants selected Barkley with the second overall pick, it was a no-brainer. He was exactly what the team needed to revitalize their struggling offense. And boy, did he deliver. In his rookie season, Barkley rushed for over 1,300 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him the title of Offensive Rookie of the Year. He also became the first rookie running back in NFL history to have over 2,000 total yards from scrimmage.
But it wasn’t just his impressive stats that made Barkley stand out. It was his style of play. Barkley has a unique blend of speed, power, and elusiveness that makes him almost impossible to bring down. He can run through defenders, around them, or even jump over them. His highlight reel is filled with jaw-dropping runs that leave fans and opponents in awe.
But what truly sets Barkley apart from other running backs in the league is his work ethic and determination. Despite his early success, he never became complacent. He continued to work hard and improve his game, always striving to be the best. And it paid off. In just two seasons, Barkley has already established himself as one of the top running backs in the NFL.
But even with all his success, Barkley remains humble and grounded. He knows that he still has a lot to prove and is always looking for ways to get better. This mindset has earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates, coaches, and fans. He is not just a great player, but also a great leader and role model.
Now, as the 2021 season approaches, Barkley is ready to make his mark once again. After suffering a season-ending injury in 2020, he is determined to come back stronger and help lead the Giants to success. And while some may argue that there are other great running backs in the league, Barkley’s talent and drive make him a cut above the rest.
In fact, even his opponents recognize his greatness. Philadelphia Eagles running back, Miles Sanders, recently named Barkley as the best running back in the NFL, second only to himself. While some may see this as a bold statement, it’s a testament to the respect and admiration Barkley has earned from his peers.
In conclusion, Saquon Barkley is not just a great football player, but a once-in-a-generation talent. His combination of skill, work ethic, and humility make him a force to be reckoned with on the field. And as he continues to prove himself year after year, it’s clear that he was indeed “touched by the hand of God”. So, let’s sit back and enjoy the show as Barkley continues to dominate the NFL and solidify his place as one of the greatest running backs of all time.
