On September 11, 2025, the world was shaken by the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Among those deeply affected by his loss was Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, a close friend who revealed the poignant final messages he received from Kirk just hours before his untimely death. This article delves into their friendship, the content of those last communications, and the profound impact Kirk’s passing had on Barkley, the NFL community, and beyond, while exploring the broader implications of this tragedy.
A Bond Beyond the Field
Saquon Barkley, fresh off a historic 2024 season where he surpassed 2,000 rushing yards and led the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory, was not only a superstar on the field but also a figure deeply engaged in personal relationships off it. His connection with Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist, was rooted in shared values of discipline, faith, and a commitment to making a difference. The two reportedly met through mutual acquaintances in the sports and political spheres, bonding over their Pennsylvania ties—Barkley hailing from Penn State and Kirk’s influence resonating through conservative circles in the state.
Their friendship wasn’t widely publicized, but those close to them noted their mutual respect. Kirk admired Barkley’s work ethic and his ability to overcome adversity, from injuries early in his career to his high-profile move from the New York Giants to the Eagles. Barkley, in turn, appreciated Kirk’s unapologetic advocacy and his ability to connect with younger audiences. They often exchanged messages about perseverance, leadership, and faith, with Kirk occasionally attending Eagles games to support his friend.
The Final Messages
In the hours before Kirk’s death, he and Barkley exchanged a series of text messages that Barkley later described as “heartbreakingly normal yet profound.” According to Barkley, Kirk reached out to congratulate him on being named the No. 1 player in the NFL’s Top 100 Players of 2025 list, a prestigious honor voted on by players across the league. Kirk’s message, sent around noon on September 11, read: “Saquon, you’re killing it, brother. #1 in the NFL, but I already knew you were the best. Keep shining, and let’s catch up soon—maybe at the next game?”
Barkley responded with gratitude, thanking Kirk for his support and suggesting they meet up after the Eagles’ upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. Kirk replied with a final message: “For sure, man. Keep running hard and stay true to you. God’s got big plans for you.” This exchange, which Barkley shared in a tearful interview with Sports Radio 94 WIP, was the last he would ever receive from his friend. “I didn’t know those would be his last words to me,” Barkley said. “They were so him—encouraging, full of faith, and pushing me to be my best.”
The Tragic News
That afternoon, Kirk was speaking at Utah Valley University as part of Turning Point USA’s American Comeback Tour when he was fatally shot. The incident, which occurred in front of an estimated 3,000 attendees, sent shockwaves across the nation. According to university police chief Jeffrey Long, the shooting was targeted, and a suspect was taken into custody the following day, as confirmed by President Donald Trump. The motive remains under investigation, but the event sparked an outpouring of grief and anger, particularly among conservative communities who viewed Kirk as a fearless voice.
Barkley was in Philadelphia, preparing for the Eagles’ Week 2 matchup, when he learned of Kirk’s death. He described the moment as “like a punch to the gut.” In a press conference, he struggled to hold back tears, saying, “Charlie was more than a friend—he was someone who believed in me, in all of us, and in this country. To lose him like this… it’s hard to process.”
The NFL’s Response
The NFL community, known for its unity in times of tragedy, responded swiftly. Before the Green Bay Packers-Commanders game on September 11, the league held a moment of silence to honor Kirk, a gesture repeated at other games that week, including Eagles matchups. Barkley, who played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ 24-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in their season opener, dedicated his performance to Kirk. “I ran a little harder out there for him,” he said, noting his 60 yards and a touchdown in the game.
Other NFL figures also paid tribute. Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, another friend of Kirk’s, shared their final correspondence, echoing Barkley’s sentiments about Kirk’s encouraging nature. The NFL’s acknowledgment of Kirk’s passing, while controversial among some fans due to his polarizing political stance, underscored the league’s recognition of his cultural impact and his personal connections with players like Barkley.
Barkley’s Reflections
In the days following Kirk’s death, Barkley took to social media to share his grief. On X, he posted: “Charlie, you were a light in this world. Your words, your faith, and your friendship meant everything. Rest in peace, brother.” The post garnered thousands of responses, with fans and fellow athletes offering condolences and sharing their own memories of Kirk.
Barkley also spoke about how Kirk’s faith influenced their conversations. Both men shared a deep Christian belief, and Kirk often referenced scripture in their discussions. “He’d always remind me of Philippians 4:13—‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,’” Barkley recalled. “That was Charlie—always lifting you up, even when you didn’t realize you needed it.”
A Friendship Rooted in Shared Values
The bond between Barkley and Kirk was emblematic of a broader trend of athletes engaging with cultural and political figures. Barkley, while not overtly political, has been vocal about issues like community empowerment and education, themes Kirk championed through Turning Point USA. Their conversations often revolved around how to inspire the next generation, with Barkley focusing on his platform as an athlete and Kirk leveraging his media presence.
Barkley’s marketability, which soared after his 2024 season, gave him a platform to amplify these values. His endorsements with brands like Nationwide, Wawa, and EA Sports (including a Madden 26 cover) made him a household name, and Kirk often encouraged him to use that influence for good. “He’d tell me, ‘You’re not just a football player—you’re a leader,’” Barkley said. “That stuck with me.”
The Broader Impact
Kirk’s assassination ignited a firestorm of reactions, with some on the far right calling it a political flashpoint. Barkley, however, urged calm in his public statements, emphasizing unity over division. “Charlie wouldn’t want us fighting each other,” he said during a team press conference. “He’d want us to come together, to keep pushing for what’s right.”
The tragedy also prompted reflection within the Eagles organization. Head coach Nick Sirianni, known for his motivational speeches, addressed the team about resilience in the face of loss. Barkley noted that Sirianni’s message echoed Kirk’s own philosophy: “Stay focused, stay united, and keep moving forward.”
Barkley’s On-Field Response
On the field, Barkley has continued to channel his emotions into his performance. Coming off a 2024 season where he set an NFL record for total yards (2,504 combined regular season and playoffs) and earned AP Offensive Player of the Year honors, Barkley remains the cornerstone of the Eagles’ run-oriented offense. The team’s recent acquisition of Tank Bigsby as a backup running back ensures Barkley can manage his workload, but he’s made it clear he’s not slowing down. “I’m playing for something bigger now,” he said, referencing Kirk’s memory.
In Week 1 against the Cowboys, Barkley’s 18 carries for 60 yards and a touchdown were a testament to his determination. He warned opponents about focusing too heavily on stopping the Eagles’ run game, saying, “We’re gonna burn you for it.” This mindset, fueled by personal loss and professional ambition, positions Barkley as a leader both on and off the field.
A Lasting Legacy
As the Eagles prepare for their title defense, Barkley carries Kirk’s memory with him. The final messages they exchanged—simple yet profound—serve as a reminder of Kirk’s belief in Barkley’s potential. “He saw something in me that I’m still trying to live up to,” Barkley said. “I want to make him proud.”
The outpouring of support for Kirk, from vigils at Turning Point USA’s headquarters to moments of silence at NFL games, reflects his wide-reaching influence. For Barkley, the loss is personal, but it’s also a call to action. He plans to honor Kirk by continuing to engage with communities, support youth initiatives, and embody the values they both held dear.
The heartbreaking final messages from Charlie Kirk to Saquon Barkley encapsulate a friendship built on mutual respect, faith, and shared goals. As Barkley navigates his grief, he remains a beacon of strength for the Eagles and their fans, using his platform to honor Kirk’s legacy. In a world often divided, their bond serves as a reminder of the power of connection, even in the face of tragedy. As Barkley continues his historic career, he carries Kirk’s words with him: “Stay true to you. God’s got big plans for you.”
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