Saquon Barkley and Trevor Keegan: Energized by Eagles' Open Practice
Saquon Barkley, one of the NFL's standout running backs, experienced a unique moment as he walked out of the home tunnel at Lincoln Financial Field for the first time. Previously, Barkley had only emerged from the visitors’ tunnel, representing Penn State during his college days and later playing for the New York Giants. This milestone occasion came during an Eagles' open practice which saw an impressive turnout.
With over 50,000 passionate fans filling the stadium, the event marked a stark contrast to typical NFL practice sessions. The scene was electric, reminiscent of the fervent college football atmosphere Barkley once thrived in. “I tell these guys it's like college," Barkley said of the experience. "If you think about it, when you leave college -- the NFL is on another level with the stadiums and the vibe. You never really get that college feeling, but you get that here."
The open practice has become increasingly popular in recent years, drawing larger crowds each time. This year's attendance was a testament to Philadelphia's spirited fan base, known for its unwavering support. Trevor Keegan, moved by the enthusiasm of the crowd, said, "It was awesome. I remember walking out there and they're introducing all the guys. I'm like 'Holy shit, this is so cool.'
The attendance and energy levels were a delight for Barkley, who has become accustomed to the buzzing ambiance of massive crowds during his collegiate career at Beaver Stadium, 200 miles northwest of Lincoln Financial Field. “When I was in college, you didn't want anyone to come into Beaver Stadium and get a win there. You get that feel here. You know how much every week is, and how much that means, when you play at the Linc," he remarked. This sentiment was echoed by Keegan, who highlighted the remarkable volume of the practice event. "It was louder than Michigan Stadium with those 50,000 people. It was rocking," he noted.
The enthusiasm from the fans not only energizes the players but also strengthens the bond between them and Philadelphia's football devotees. Barkley acknowledged the immense support saying, "I already knew how much love this city has, not just for this team, but all the teams around here. But for a practice to have 50,000 fans is truly insane. ... It's big. It helps us as a team. It kind of gives me that college feel again."
The sense of unity fostered by the Philadelphia supporters creates an environment where players are keenly motivated to give their all on the field. “You just hear about it every day how passionate the fans are for this team and the rest of the sports teams. It's awesome," Keegan added. The overwhelming support serves as a powerful driving force for the players, pushing them to match the fervency of their fans with their performance.
Barkley summed up the prevailing sentiment saying, "I'm excited to go out there and play for those guys, to play for this fanbase. Every week I'm gonna try to give them 100 percent and try to compete at a high level." This eagerness to connect with and perform for Philadelphia’s passionate fans was shared by Keegan. Reflecting on the experience, he shared, “You can feel it from the fans. I got goosebumps. It was so cool. I was so excited and I'm excited for the season."
Philadelphia's fervent fans create an unmatched atmosphere that harkens back to the players’ collegiate days, blending the raw, electric energy with the professional rigor of the NFL. As Trevor Keegan put it, "Blue collar, hard-working people that sports brings all together. It's one of the coolest things." This unique fusion undoubtedly raises expectations and excitement for the upcoming season, inspiring both the players and fans to look forward to the moments of glory ahead.