Philadelphia Eagles' running back Saquon Barkley leads NFL merchandise sales, passing Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes

Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley reached the No. 1 spot in NFL merchandise sales, surpassing Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Saquon Barkley led all players in overall sales of officially licensed products, the NFL Players Association's latest report concludes, making him the league's most marketable player for March 2024 through February 2025. In a league that has traditionally been quarterback-dominated in popularity figures, Saquon Barkley's rise to being the top-selling player is an intriguing aberration. The Philadelphia Eagles' new sensation bumped Patrick Mahomes aside based on sales of anything from jerseys to collectibles and accessories. It's the first time since 2017 that a running back has topped the list, both a personal milestone for Barkley and a broader change in fan interest. The entire list, compiled by the NFL Players Association, is based on sales volume from big-box retailers such as Fanatics, Funko, FOCO, and Outerstuff. It includes all officially licensed NFL products and products bearing a player's image or name, including toys, bags, apparel, and more. “I don’t mean it in a cocky way—I just want to be the best running back to ever play the game. Or at least one of the best,” Barkley told reporters. “I know there’s no definitive way to prove who’s the greatest, but that’s what drives me. I believe God blessed me with a unique talent, and He’s put me through a lot of adversity. That’s the mindset I bring.” The occasional Penn State legend has already accumulated 7,216 rushing yards in six NFL seasons, fourth among active running backs behind Joe Mixon (7,428), Ezekiel Elliott (9,130), and Derrick Henry (11,423). Reaching Emmitt Smith's all-time high of 18,355 yards is a long shot, however—a pursuit Barkley plans to pursue. Also read: Nick Sirianni dismisses Saquon Barkley retirement talk, says RB has ‘plenty left’ and is key to Eagles’ futureHis bold declaration indicates growing confidence as he begins a new chapter with the Eagles, a team and fan base known for their passionate loyalty. And while he looks to leave his name on the map in NFL history, both as an athlete and an entity, everyone will be watching Philadelphia in 2025.