At the NFL owners meeting in Orlando, Giants owner John Mara didn’t mince words about his reaction to star running back Saquon Barkley’s decision to join the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency. Mara, known for his candidness, admitted that he felt “sick” seeing Barkley choose the Eagles over the Giants earlier this month.
Mara’s honesty didn’t stop there. He also revealed that he shared his sentiments with Barkley directly via text message. This move highlights the emotional investment Mara has in the team and his players, particularly someone as pivotal as Barkley.
Moreover, Mara wasn’t the only one taken aback by Barkley’s choice. He also confided in Giants General Manager Joe Schoen, expressing his dissatisfaction at the prospect of Barkley landing in the NFC East, a division rife with rivalry and competition.
This candid glimpse into Mara’s reaction underscores the passionate nature of NFL team ownership and the personal connections forged between owners and players. For Mara, Barkley’s departure to a divisional rival was more than just a business transaction—it stirred genuine emotions, reflecting the intense rivalry between the Giants and the Eagles.
As the Giants navigate the aftermath of Barkley’s departure, Mara’s candidness serves as a reminder of the human element behind the scenes of professional sports, where personal connections and emotions often intersect with business decisions.
