STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (WHTM) – It was announced on Monday that former Penn State running back Saquon Barkley would be signing a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

In a press conference on Tuesday, his former coach James Franklin shared his thoughts on how Barkley was able to earn a deal that could be worth up to $46.75 million at a position that is increasingly being devalued in the NFL.

Saquon Barkley signs with Philadelphia Eagles

“I think a lot of runningbacks are realizing. . . you better bring more value than just as a running back,” said Penn State Head Coach James Franklin. “You better be a leader in the locker room and as we all know Saquan’s handled himself really well and has influence over guys in the locker room.”

Franklin also highlighted how Barkley’s receiving game has made him marketable.

“You’ve got to be able to make an impact in the passing game as well and I think he’s one of those backs that can be used in a lot of different ways,” Franklin said.

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Franklin commented on the connection that Penn State has with the Eagles since their fan base often overlaps.

“For him now to come back and be able to play within the state in Philadelphia, (Barkley) said that was one of the first things Howie (Roseman) said to him on the phone as part of his sales pitch to him,” Franklin said. “Not only the Philadelphia Eagles but obviously the connection with Penn State and the fan bases as well.”

Franklin is especially pleased with the move because of the potential that Barkley will be able to come back and visit Penn State. Franklin hopes with Barkley being closer he can come to some of the games and serve as an inspiration for the current players.

“We like our lettermen and our former players, especially the guys who are in the NFL, to get back as much as they can to campus to have an influence over our current roster,” Franklin said. “Selfishly, I think there’s a ton of value for Penn State football and our players.”

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