What happened: The Philadelphia Eagles celebrated running back Saquon Barkley's selection to TIME's inaugural 100 Most Influential People in Sports list. Barkley joins a select group of athletes and executives recognized for their global impact, cultural influence, and leadership within the sports world.

Why it matters: The honor underscores Barkley's status as a market-setting figure following his historic $20 million-per-year contract extension. As the list recently recognized other industry titans like Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Barkley's inclusion highlights his significant commercial leverage and status as a top-three player in NFLPA merchandise sales.

What to watch: Barkley is currently adapting to a new outside-zone scheme under offensive coordinator Sean Mannion as the Eagles begin their 2026 offseason preparations.