The Philadelphia Eagles have been exonerated by the NFL following a thorough investigation into allegations of tampering with then-free agent running back Saquon Barkley.
The probe, which spanned nearly three months, concluded without uncovering any evidence of foul play, thereby absolving the Eagles of any penalties.
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NFL didn’t find enough tampering evidence
The investigation was launched amid speculation that the Eagles had engaged in improper communication with Barkley prior to his signing.
However, the NFL’s statement made clear that their comprehensive review did not support these claims.
“After a thorough review of the Philadelphia Eagles’ signing of Saquon Barkley, the NFL today informed the club that the investigation did not discover sufficient evidence to support a finding that the Anti-Tampering Policy was violated,” read the official statement.
The investigation involved an examination of phone logs, text messages, and other pertinent documents related to the Eagles’ free agency strategy.
Key figures, including Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman, Head Coach Nick Sirianni, Barkley himself, and Penn State Head Coach James Franklin, were interviewed during the process.
The probe was initiated after Franklin’s comments suggested that Barkley and Roseman had communicated directly during the legal tampering period.
Barkley later clarified that Franklin had misinterpreted the situation.
Despite these public remarks, the NFL found no direct evidence of prohibited contact.
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Throughout the investigation, the Eagles maintained that all communications with Barkley were conducted through his agent, a fact corroborated by the NFL’s findings.
As a result, Philadelphia will face no fines or loss of draft picks.
The case contrasts sharply with the recent punishment of the Atlanta Falcons, who were fined and stripped of a 2025 fifth-round draft pick for violations during the free agency process.
This highlights the NFL’s commitment to enforcing its tampering rules strictly.
Barkley, a standout player with six seasons at the New York Giants, signed a three-year, $38 million contract with the Eagles during the 52-hour legal tampering period in March.
The All-Pro running back, who hails from the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania, has already made a strong impression during the Eagles’ OTAs, showing the explosive talent that made him a coveted free agent.
The Eagles are set to open their season against the Green Bay Packers in Brazil on September 6.
Barkley’s highly anticipated return to MetLife Stadium will occur in Week 6, when the Eagles face the Giants on October 20.
NFL fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on this matchup, given the offseason drama that preceded it.
