CONGRATULATIONS: Saquon Barkley Named to TIME 100 Most Influential People in Sports —

CONGRATULATIONS: Saquon Barkley Named to TIME 100 Most Influential People in Sports — A Penn State Legend Still Changing Lives Beyond the Field

 

In a year dominated by fresh faces and record-breaking performances across the football world, one name continues to rise above the rest for reasons that transcend the game itself — Saquon Barkley. The star running back, known for his unmatched athleticism and community-driven mindset, has been named to *TIME* magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2025. It’s a recognition that highlights not only Barkley’s on-field brilliance but also his deeper mission to inspire change, mentor youth, and redefine what it means to be a modern-day athlete.

 

For fans of Penn State football, this honor feels personal. Barkley’s story began in State College, where he became one of the most electrifying players to ever wear the Nittany Lions uniform. From the moment he stepped onto the field under then-coach James Franklin, Barkley’s blend of speed, strength, and humility captured the hearts of fans nationwide. But as impressive as his college career was — filled with unforgettable runs and game-changing plays — it’s his post-collegiate journey that has truly defined his legacy.

 

 

 

Now, years into a professional career that has seen its fair share of triumphs and challenges, Barkley’s impact continues to grow in ways that reach far beyond the stadium. He has become a symbol of perseverance, faith, and purpose — a player who never allowed fame or fortune to distract from his principles. In an era where social media can often distort the meaning of influence, Barkley stands out as someone whose influence comes from authenticity and heart.

 

Over the past year, Barkley has launched several initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged communities through education and sports mentorship. His “24 Vision” Foundation, a nod to his jersey number and his focus on long-term impact, provides scholarships, youth training camps, and leadership programs that help young athletes balance ambition with responsibility. Coaches across the country often point to Barkley as a role model for how professional athletes should give back to the communities that raised them.

 

But what makes his inclusion on the *TIME 100* list even more remarkable is that it isn’t just about charity — it’s about transformation. Barkley has used his platform to speak out on mental health awareness, athlete well-being, and the importance of building personal identity beyond sports. In doing so, he’s helped shift the culture within locker rooms and fan bases alike. The image of Barkley kneeling with young players at his camp, talking about resilience and faith, has become almost as iconic as his game-winning runs.

 

 

 

 

On the field, Barkley continues to remind everyone why he was once considered one of the most dynamic talents in football history. Playing under his current coach in New York, he’s adapted his game to become not only a runner but also a leader — the emotional center of his team. His teammates often describe him as the bridge between generations, someone who brings both energy and maturity to the locker room. His leadership isn’t loud or boastful; it’s built on consistency, work ethic, and genuine care for those around him.

 

Penn State fans have followed his journey with pride, often referring to Barkley as the “forever Lion.” His roots remain firmly tied to the Nittany Lion program, and current coach James Franklin never misses an opportunity to mention how Barkley’s example continues to influence the next wave of student-athletes. Many young running backs at Penn State still watch his old highlight tapes for motivation, studying his balance, his explosive cuts, and the way he carried himself both in victory and defeat.

 

The *TIME 100* feature that honors Barkley paints a picture of a man who has found equilibrium in a world that often pulls athletes in every direction. It celebrates not just his football career, but his growing reputation as a mentor, philanthropist, and father. In a sports landscape increasingly defined by controversy and ego, Barkley represents something pure — a reminder that greatness is not only about how you play but how you live.

 

As tributes pour in from fans, teammates, and coaches, the message remains clear: Saquon Barkley has transcended the boundaries of sport. His journey from the fields of Pennsylvania to the pages of *TIME* stands as a testament to discipline, faith, and the quiet power of doing the right thing when no one is watching.

 

In many ways, Barkley’s story mirrors that of football itself — a game built on struggle, endurance, and unity. From early morning workouts in the cold to the roar of 100,000 fans in Beaver Stadium, every moment has shaped him into the man he is today. And though his accolades will fill pages in record books, it’s his influence — the unseen ripple effect of his character — that will define his true legacy.

 

For young athletes dreaming of their own futures, Barkley’s journey offers a lesson far greater than any touchdown could teach: that influence is earned, not given. It’s not measured by fame or money, but by the lives you touch and the hope you inspire. Saquon Barkley has done all that and more — a true legend who proves that being influential isn’t just about changing the game, but about changing the world.