In a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley delivered one of the most daring plays of Week 9 with a reverse hurdle over a Jacksonville Jaguars defender.
The play showcased Barkley’s incredible athleticism but also raised concerns, with Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce issuing a strong warning to aspiring football players on his “New Heights” podcast
On the podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother and Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce, Travis made it clear he doesn’t want young players trying to replicate Barkley’s risky move, which involved leaping backward over an opponent.
“Kids, do not f***ing do that,” he said emphatically, urging young athletes to prioritize safety. Jason agreed, adding, “Please do not try and hurdle people backward. Don’t do it.” The Kelce brothers emphasized that football should be played primarily on the ground, and Travis, in particular, stressed that moves like Barkley’s should be left to elite athletes with extraordinary skill.
“Football isn’t meant to be played in the air”
Further discussing the play, Travis continued to drive home the point that most football action happens on the field, not mid-air.
“Football is not meant to be played in the air,” he said. “Unless you’re an incredible athlete… if your athleticism is far more superior than everybody else’s on the field, do whatever the f*** you want. But outside of that, do not try it; that is a safety hazard.”
Barkley’s athletic leap drew praise from fans and teammates alike. Despite the public amazement, Barkley remained humble, downplaying his accomplishment. After the game, he told CBS Sports’ AJ Ross, “Let my body just react. That play was cool and all.”
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, however, was more than impressed. He called it “the best play I’ve ever seen” and lauded Barkley as possibly the only player who could execute such a daring move.
