Saquon Barkley next team odds: Bears new favorites to land star RB

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Yes, you read the betting board right. Chicago (+200) is the new favorite to land Barkley. The Bears have made a big jump as they sat at +900 as recently as March 5. They were at +1200 to land Barkley in late February.

Houston, which was favored last week, is second on the list at +250. Their odds moved slightly over the weekend, from +200 to +250.

Philadelphia (+350) has the third-best odds. The Eagles have climbed up the odds board since the Giants opted not to place the franchise tag on him, as their odds to land Barkley were +3000 on March 4.

Barkley has proven to be one of the league’s top running backs since the Giants selected him with the No. 2 overall pick in 2018. He had a stellar season in 2022, rushing for 1,312 yards on 4.4 yards per carry and 10 touchdowns to go along with 57 receptions for 338 yards.

But Barkley’s 2023 season wasn’t as prolific, as the Giants offense struggled, and he dealt with injuries. He still put up a solid season, rushing for 962 yards and six touchdowns on 3.9 yards per carry, adding 41 receptions for 280 yards and four touchdowns.

So, which team will the two-time Pro Bowl running back suit up for the upcoming season?

FOX Sports NFC East Report Ralph Vacchiano shared his thoughts on the Bears and Eagles below.

Chicago Bears

There is no doubt that the Bears are in the market for a running back. One NFL source said they were linked more to Josh Jacobs recently, but if they’re shopping at the top of the market they might as well check on Barkley too.

New GM Ryan Poles came from Kansas City, where the Chiefs didn’t always seem to value running backs. Then again, the Bears don’t have Patrick Mahomes and need someone to keep the pressure off whomever their quarterback is next season.

Barkley will surely have options with teams in better situations, but money could be an important factor in his search for a “fair” deal. The Bears have more than enough cap room to make him happy.

Philadelphia Eagles

GM Howie Roseman doesn’t usually spend on running backs, but he’s not opposed to doing it for the right one. And according to a team source, he thinks Saquon Barkley could be the right one for the Eagles offense – a back who could thrive behind their strong line and be a force in the passing game, too.

They are likely to make a bid, though they probably have their financial limits, especially considering how many quality running backs are currently on the market. They are hoping that the flooded market keeps Barkley’s price down. If it does, don’t be surprised if they swoop in.

As for the other teams?

Houston Texans

Barkley would be a nice addition to the Texans’ roster if they want to build on the momentum from their surprise AFC South Division title and divisional-round playoff appearance.

Houston has a need at running back, too. Devin Singletary, who rushed for nearly 900 yards and four touchdowns last season, is set to hit free agency. Dameon Pierce struggled in his second season, rushing for fewer than three yards per carry.

Barkley’s 41 receptions and four receiving touchdowns also would’ve been the fourth-best mark for the Texans last season, potentially giving C.J. Stroud a possible receiving weapon.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers already made a big splash this offseason by hiring Jim Harbaugh. Will they make another splash in free agency?

If they do, they might make it by adding a top running back. Harbaugh has shown his affinity for running the ball at each of his head coaching stops.

They’re fourth on the board to land Barkley at +450 after being +250 in March.

Naturally, Barkley would help satisfy Harbaugh’s desire to run the ball well and help the Chargers ground game. Austin Ekeler, who’s set to hit free agency, rushed for 628 yards on a career-low 3.5 yards per carry this past season.