The Philadelphia Eagles looked unstoppable through most of the 2024-25 NFL season. After two early setbacks against the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they transformed into a championship machine, closing out the regular season at 14-3 before capturing their second Super Bowl title with a dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Now, as the defending champions prepare for another title run, a Philadelphia sports legend has some pointed advice about the biggest challenge ahead.
What Does Charles Barkley Think the Eagles Must Avoid in 2025-26?
Former NBA superstar Charles Barkley recently appeared on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” and shared his perspective on Philadelphia’s championship defense. The Basketball Hall of Famer, who spent eight seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers, knows the city well and understands what it takes to maintain excellence at the highest level.
Despite never winning an NBA championship himself, Barkley’s resume speaks volumes about sustained success. The 1993 NBA Most Valuable Player earned 11 All-Star selections, captured All-Star MVP honors, made 10 All-NBA teams, and collected multiple Olympic gold medals during his legendary career.
When asked about the Eagles’ chances of repeating as Super Bowl champions, Barkley didn’t hesitate to express his confidence in the team. However, he also identified what he considers the most dangerous trap facing defending champions.
“I’m a big Eagles fan,” Barkley admitted. “They’re going to be really good. I think the number one thing you have to worry about when you win is guys relaxing. You have to change your mindset when you win. You have to realize we’re going to be the hunted, not the hunter.”
This shift in mentality represents one of the most challenging aspects of defending a championship. Teams that captured titles often find themselves facing opponents who circle their games on the calendar, bringing extra intensity and preparation to every matchup.
Beyond the psychological challenges, Barkley praised the Eagles’ core foundation that should help them navigate the pressures of being defending champions. He specifically highlighted the combination of talent and leadership that makes Philadelphia special.
“But I think with Saquon [Barkley] and Jalen [Hurts] and coach Nick [Sirianni], you got Howie Roseman, probably the best GM in the NFL now, they’re going to be good,” he said.
How Does Barkley View the Physical Challenges Ahead?
The former Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets star also addressed another crucial factor in championship defense: managing the physical toll of deep playoff runs. The Eagles’ extended 2024-25 postseason journey, while ultimately successful, created additional wear and tear that could impact the upcoming season.
SAQUON BARKLEY HAS THREE TDS IN HIS @EAGLES DEBUT.
📺: #GBvsPHI on Peacock pic.twitter.com/WNuj78udYi
— NFL (@NFL) September 7, 2024
“When you go that deep in the playoffs, you have to be healthy,” Barkley explained. “Playing an extra three or four or five games, it takes a toll on you.”
This observation carries particular weight given football’s physical nature. While the Eagles were among the healthier teams in the league during their championship season, the accumulated impact of those additional playoff games represents a legitimate concern heading into 2025-26.
The conversation took a lighter turn when Barkley addressed his shared surname with Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, who played a pivotal role in the team’s Super Bowl victory.
“The main thing, Saquon was a gift from heaven,” he said with a smile. “I can’t wait to meet him. I never met my cousin, I’m a Barkley, he’s a Barkley, so if you’re that good as a Barkley, I’m going to claim you.”
As the Eagles prepare for training camp and the start of another championship pursuit, Barkley’s advice serves as both warning and encouragement. The talent and leadership structure remain in place, but maintaining the hunger and intensity that drove their Super Bowl victory will determine whether Philadelphia can join the exclusive club of back-to-back champions.
