Philadelphia, PA, August 12, 2025
News Summary
Saquon Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles running back, has turned down an invitation to join President Trump’s sports council. Citing a busy schedule and family priorities, Barkley’s decision comes as the council aims to revive the Presidential Fitness Test. Despite a stellar 2024 NFL season, leading the league in rushing yards, Barkley is focused on his family’s interests and is adjusting to potential changes in his role on the Eagles team, including a greater emphasis on passing plays.
Philadelphia, PA – Saquon Barkley, the running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, has declined an invitation to join President Donald Trump’s council on sports, fitness, and nutrition. This council is being revitalized following an executive order from the President aimed at enhancing fitness and nutrition initiatives across the United States.
The council reestablishes the Presidential Fitness Test, a program designed to assess health in American children through a series of exercises such as 1-mile runs, sit-ups, and stretching. This initiative is a comeback of sorts since it was phased out during the Obama administration.
Barkley expressed surprise at being mentioned alongside prominent sports figures who have accepted the invitation, such as golfers Bryson DeChambeau and Nelly Korda, WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque, football Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor, and retired New York Yankees star Mariano Rivera. However, Barkley indicated that he felt too busy to accept and believed it was best for his family not to participate.
The running back had a standout performance in the 2024 NFL season, leading the league with 2,005 rushing yards and making history as the first player to accumulate over 2,500 rushing yards, including playoffs. Barkley was instrumental in leading the Eagles to their second Super Bowl title, although he faced significant defensive pressure during the championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs, managing only 57 yards on 25 attempts.
In the postseason, Barkley totaled 91 carries for 499 yards and five touchdowns. Despite being a high-profile athlete, his visit to golf with both President Trump and former President Barack Obama earlier received significant social media criticism. Barkley addressed the backlash by affirming his respect for the office of the President, regardless of which party occupies it. He also participated in the Eagles’ White House celebration after their Super Bowl victory.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Philadelphia Eagles are expected to make a strategic shift in their running game, possibly increasing Barkley’s role in the passing game. Barkley experienced a notable decrease in receptions compared to prior seasons, and the team aims to balance his workload after he recorded a career-high in carries during the 2024 campaign. He has expressed comfort with the prospect of taking on more pass-catching responsibilities, solidifying his commitment to the team’s success.
The Eagles are focused on keeping Barkley fresh and effective, addressing concerns over his workload while leveraging his dynamic abilities both as a runner and a receiver.
FAQ
Why did Saquon Barkley decline the invitation to the sports council?
Saquon Barkley declined the invitation citing a busy schedule and the best interests of his family.
What is the purpose of the Presidential Fitness Test being revived?
The Presidential Fitness Test aims to gauge children’s health and fitness through various exercises to encourage a healthier lifestyle.
How did Saquon Barkley perform in the 2024 season?
In the 2024 season, Barkley led the NFL with 2,005 rushing yards and became the first player in history to surpass 2,500 rushing yards, including playoffs.
What changes are being considered for Barkley’s role in the team?
The Eagles are considering increasing Barkley’s involvement in the passing game to better balance his workload and enhance team performance.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Invitation Declined | Saquon Barkley declined the invitation to the Presidential sports council due to his busy schedule and family considerations. |
| Presidential Fitness Test | The test assesses children’s fitness through exercises like running and sit-ups and is reinstated under Trump’s administration. |
| 2024 Season Performance | Barkley led the NFL with 2,005 rushing yards and was pivotal in the Eagles’ Super Bowl win. |
| Future Strategy | The Eagles are likely to adjust Barkley’s role to increase his participation in passing plays and manage his workload effectively. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ESPN: Philadelphia Eagles and Saquon Barkley
- Sports Illustrated: Saquon Barkley Open to Role Change
- Times of India: Madden NFL 26 Ratings
- Google Search: Saquon Barkley
- Politico: Barkley Declines Council Invitation
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
