The Eagles have already made several moves heading into free agency, including re-signing Saquon Barkley to a contract extension, giving him the biggest running back contract in NFL history.

Barkley spoke to reporters on Monday about his excitement for this opportunity and what it means for him to stay with the Eagles organization.

“I think it was just mutual. The love I have for the organization and wanting to be here for a very long time — and the same thing they feel for me, obviously, it shows. So, I’m just thankful for, obviously the extension, but being part of this organization from top to bottom. They do it the right way, everybody in this building. So, to be able to be part of this another four years, I think it is, and hopefully more, I’m super excited about that.”

Barkley said that you never know in this business, but when it came to his attention that the Eagles already wanted to sign him to an extension, the RB wasn’t upset about it at all.

“Definitely fired up, me and my family are fired up.”

He emphasized that the extension and money is great, but he’s really most happy about the opportunity to stay with the Eagles organization.

“To continue to build on what we were able to do last year is a big goal of mine.”

Barkley didn’t want to bring much up of his past with the Giants, but reflected on all that’s happened since New York used the franchise tag on him. He recalled being in Atlantic City thinking about whether to sign the tag and how he bet on himself, proving to him that every time he’s bet on himself, he’s made the right choice.

The running back talks a lot about cementing his legacy and building a legacy and without hesitation he agreed that being in Philly long term is the best way to do that.

Barkley later said that he’s already been in touch with coaches, including Jemal Singleton, about ways they can improve next season. He acknowledged that they will need to evolve in order to stay successful, and quipped that he, specifically, needs to get better running with the ball in his left hand.

He later talked about how big the continuity among the offense is, and how throughout different sports, in order to be successful in successive seasons, it’s key to have familiar people in the locker room.

Other notables

• After such a big workload last season, Barkley is approaching this offseason by listening to his body and making sure it gets enough rest and recovery time. He has been doing some light work recently, but nothing strenuous.
• He noted that there are moments that come up that remind him he won a Super Bowl — getting the key to his hometown, the parade, getting the ring — but everyday, it’s not something he’s stuck in and is already looking ahead to being in a position to do it again.
• Barkley acknowledged that he hopes his new contract helps the rest of the running back market and the valuation of the position. Some other RBs did reach out after his signed the new deal, and Barkley noted James Cook — who is looking for his own new contract — was probably the most excited.
• The RB was asked about Jalen Hurts saying that Barkley was the missing piece at the end of the Super Bowl victory, and said that it meant a lot for the QB to say that to him. He appreciated how Hurts and other teammates noted his impact on this team. Barkley also was sure to say that the feeling is mutual because the whole team has had a big impact on him, as well.