Former Penn State football RB Saquon Barkley lands NFL leadership role
Saquon Barkley has continued to lead in the NFL, earning himself a captain’s role in the NFL with the New York Giants.
There really hasn’t been a player to come out of the Penn State football program in the last decade or so that’s better than Saquon Barkley. Back in 2015, we knew this guy was special. Although he wasn’t the prominent running back we know nowadays quite yet, there was something about his game and his demeanor that proved he was destined for stardom so early on.
In 2016, Barkley was issued 14 games to showcase his talent on a full-time basis. As expected, he didn’t disappoint. Barkley ended up appearing in 300 plays for the Lions offense, totaling for 1,898 scrimmage yards and 22 total touchdowns. By the time his final college season rolled around, Barkley was easily recognized as one of the best players in college football.
The Penn State product had every reason to be cocky about his game — but he refused. Not only was Barkley an outstanding talent, but he was also an exceptional and humble leader. There was a reason why his team voted him to be a captain during his time in Happy Valley.
His status as a leader would look good on his NFL resume. Pro coaches had three years of college game film, an impressive pro day, and outstanding combine results to look at regarding Barkley, but his personality and leadership qualities are what many raved about in 2018 and beyond.
Barkley was born to lead. Penn State recognized that early, and so did the New York Giants.
A new captain in New York
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On Monday, the New York Giants announced their captains for the 2019 NFL season. Typically, second-year players don’t really have the opportunity to obtain that honor — especially players who aren’t quarterbacks. However, Saquon Barkley becomes the exception.
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All last season, the Giants were pretty much down for the count, but Barkley uplifted spirits. While he dominated on the field as well, his words of encouragement, and refusal to give up was easily his most impressive quality during his rookie season. For that, he will rock a captain’s patch on Sunday’s for the 2019 season and beyond.