Philadelphia, PA - April 18, 2025 - Dallas Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith has stirred controversy with pointed criticism of Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, labeling him a one-season standout and forecasting challenges for the defending Super Bowl champions. In an interview on Sports Illustrated’s The MMQB Podcast, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher challenged Barkley’s consistency and questioned the Eagles’ heavy investment in him.
“Barkley is a one-season wonder,” Smith said. “Six seasons with the Giants, he was nothing special. Trust me, the Eagles will falter relying on him.”
Smith’s remarks target Barkley’s transformative 2024 campaign, which saw him rush for 2,005 yards, amass 2,283 yards from scrimmage, and score 13 touchdowns, earning NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors. His 499 playoff yards, including 149 in Philadelphia’s Super Bowl LIX victory over Kansas City, set an NFL record for total yards in a season (2,504). The Eagles rewarded Barkley with a two-year, $41.2 million extension in March 2025, making him the highest-paid running back at $20.6 million annually.
However, Smith highlighted Barkley’s tenure with the New York Giants (2018-2023), where he averaged 1,054 rushing yards per season and missed 27 games due to injuries. “One big year doesn’t erase years of inconsistency,” Smith asserted. “He’s injury-prone, and that contract’s a gamble. Philly’s in for a rude awakening.”
Smith, a three-time Super Bowl champion and 1993 NFL MVP, has a history of critiquing the Eagles, from their 2020 tanking controversy to their recent “Go Birds” bravado. His latest comments underscore skepticism about Barkley’s ability to sustain elite production at 28, especially with a $36 million guaranteed deal laden with $1.5 million in annual incentives tied to yardage and accolades.
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni dismissed the critique, emphasizing Barkley’s durability and leadership. “Saquon played every game last year and carried us,” Sirianni said. “He’s our engine.” General manager Howie Roseman, who structured Barkley’s contract with low cap hits ($6.66 million in 2025), expressed confidence in his longevity.
As the NFL Draft nears, Smith’s remarks intensify the Cowboys-Eagles rivalry. Barkley’s response on the field will determine whether he silences the Hall of Famer or validates his doubts, but Philadelphia remains steadfast in its commitment to its star running back.
