Saquon Barkley, the Philadelphia Eagles’ star running back and AP Offensive Player of the Year, has made headlines again—this time not for his jaw-dropping 2,005-yard rushing season, but for a surprising off-field decision. The Super Bowl champion has politely declined an invitation to join President Donald Trump’s revitalized Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, citing a packed schedule and family considerations.
The council, reestablished under a recent executive order, aims to promote health and athleticism across the nation. It includes an impressive roster of sports icons like golfers Bryson DeChambeau and Nelly Korda, WWE executive Paul “Triple H” Levesque, football legend Lawrence Taylor, and retired New York Yankees closer Mariano Rivera. Barkley’s name on the list raised eyebrows, even catching the running back himself off guard. “I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned,” Barkley shared with reporters after Monday’s Eagles practice. “I’m assuming it’s something great, so I appreciate it, but me and my family thought it would probably be of best interest to not accept.”
The executive order also brings back the Presidential Fitness Test, a nostalgic staple of American schools since 1966. The test, which includes one-mile runs, sit-ups, and stretching exercises, was phased out during the Obama administration but is now being revived to encourage youth fitness. “This is a wonderful tradition, and we’re bringing it back,” Trump declared last week.
Barkley’s decision comes despite his friendly encounters with Trump, including a golf outing at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey, last April. The running back even hitched a ride with the president on Air Force One and Marine One to attend the White House celebration for the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory—a ceremony notably skipped by teammates like star quarterback Jalen Hurts. Trump praised Barkley at the time, calling him “a great young guy and an incredible football player” who had “a season for the ages” behind the NFL’s most formidable offensive line.
The 28-year-old running back, whose 2,005 rushing yards last season rank eighth-best in NFL history, also faced social media scrutiny after his visit with Trump. Barkley, however, was quick to clarify his stance, noting that he had previously golfed with former President Barack Obama as well. “Maybe I just respect the office, not a hard concept to understand,” he posted on X, brushing off the criticism with his signature cool-headedness.
While Barkley’s on-field heroics continue to captivate fans, his choice to prioritize family and personal commitments over the high-profile council invitation showcases a different kind of strength. As the Eagles gear up for another season, all eyes will be on Barkley—not just for his electrifying runs, but for the bold moves he makes off the field.