Along the way, Barkley has helped the Eagles transform and improve the original standing of the running back position. Once thought of as a dying position group in terms of long-term value, Barkley has helped prove that top backs are not just commodities, but are needed to be contenders.

As Barkley made his decision, he and his now fiancée made a pros and cons list. The only con about the Eagles—potential blow back after leaving the Giants for a division rival.

Saquon Barkley is arguably the brightest star of the Philadelphia Eagles' latest Super Bowl appearance. And yet the big-time running back almost didn't play for the Eagles at all. Asked about his exit from the New York Giants during Monday's Opening Night at the Caesars Superdome,