Saquon Barkley wins NFL Offensive Player of the Year

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has been awarded the AP Offensive Player of the Year for his outstanding 2024 season, where he rushed for 2,005 yards and 13 touchdowns over 16 games. Barkley, who joined the Eagles after leaving the New York Giants, became the ninth player in NFL history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season. His performance was crucial in helping the Eagles secure the No. 2 seed in the playoffs, with Barkley resting in the final regular-season game to prepare for the postseason. Despite stiff competition from players like Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, Barkley emerged as the winner with 406 points and 35 first-place votes. His achievements include setting a franchise record for the Eagles with his rushing yards and leading the team to the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. While Barkley is a candidate for MVP, the award often favors quarterbacks, with the last running back to win it being Adrian Peterson in 2012.