Giants Reject Trump's Claims on Barkley Departure

During the Philadelphia Eagles’ White House celebration for their Super Bowl LIX victory, President Donald Trump claimed he had previously warned the New York Giants not to let star running back Saquon Barkley leave in free agency. Trump recounted telling Giants leadership to do anything necessary to keep Barkley, but the Giants deny that any such conversation ever took place, with team spokesperson Pat Hanlon explicitly stating there were 'no conversations' between Trump and the team. Barkley, who left the Giants for the Eagles, went on to have a record-breaking season, earning Offensive Player of the Year and helping the Eagles secure the championship. Barkley also defended his interactions with Trump amid criticism, emphasizing that he respects the office of the presidency and noting he has also golfed with Barack Obama. The Giants, meanwhile, are moving forward with a new roster, though the success of Barkley with a division rival remains a sore spot. The incident has sparked renewed discussion about the Giants' decision to let Barkley go and the veracity of Trump's claims.