NFL investigating Falcons, Eagles for possible tampering violations after Kirk Cousins, Saquon Barkley deals

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The NFL is investigating the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles for potential tampering violations after comments from quarterback Kirk Cousins and Saquon Barkley’s former college coach raised concerns about possible discussions between the players and their respective organizations before the legal period allowed. 

Penn State head coach James Franklin suggested in comments made earlier this week that Eagles general manager Howie Roseman had made a sales pitch to Barkley directly, saying that many Philly fans are also the same fans who supported him at Penn State. 

Saquon Barkley, #26 of the New York Giants, in action against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on December 11, 2023, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

"(Barkley) said that was one of the first things that Howie said to him on the phone as part of his sales pitch," Franklin told Sports Illustrated. "Not only the Philadelphia Eagles and that, but also the connection with Penn State and the fan base as well. So just a really cool opportunity."

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The Eagles denied those allegations, which Barkley himself confirmed in his introductory press conference with the media on Thursday where he added that the coach had "misinterpreted" their conversation. 

"The truth was, the sales pitch to Penn State — how many Penn State fans are Philadelphia Eagles fans –— but that was through my agent. My agent told me that. It happens, and I’m going to let [the organization] handle that."

League rules allow for teams to talk directly with agents during the 52-hour negotiating window, but do not allow for