Former Giants running back Saquon Barkley was “shocked” to hear his name listed on President Trump’s sports council after the star running back declined an invitation to join.
Trump signed an executive order establishing an initiative to promote sports, fitness and nutrition for young people. Barkley, now a Super Bowl champion with the Philadelphia Eagles, said after practice on Monday he didn’t expect to be named among the 30 people involved in that project.
The 28-year-old Bronx native said his team was made aware of the president’s sports council a couple of months ago, but he doesn’t know much about it.
“I felt like I am going to be super busy, so me and my family thought it would probably be of best interest to not accept that,” he said, according to ESPN. “I was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned.”
Barkley said he’s “assuming” it’s a positive idea so he appreciates his name being included.
Trump claimed in April that he personally warned the Giants not to let Barkley become a free agent and leave town. The team claims that conversation never happened.
Trump also said San Francisco 49ers defensive standout Nick Bosa, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker and Giants Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor were onboard to join his council last week. Taylor said during a White House visit last week he was happy to be on Trump’s team, but had no idea what that involved.
“I don’t know what we’re supposed to be doing, but I’m here to serve, and I’m here to serve you,” Taylor said.
Originally Published:
