The NFL intends to investigate the Philadelphia Eagles for potentially tampering 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, unless a player is self-represented, they can not speak to any players directly.
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 — something they’ve been punished for previously — they could be stripped of picks in the 2024 NFL draft.
