For Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, the most critical plays aren't always made on the gridiron. They happen at home, during tea parties where he dons a unicorn headband for his daughter, or in quiet moments of family support that anchor his high-flying NFL career. At the heart of this world are his fiancée, Anna Congdon, and their two children, Jada Clare Barkley and Saquon Barkley Jr., who form the unwavering foundation of his life.
From Penn State Sweethearts to NFL's Power Couple
The story of Saquon Barkley and Anna Congdon is a classic college romance that evolved into a lifelong partnership. Both natives of Pennsylvania, their paths converged at Penn State University. While Barkley was skyrocketing to fame as a star running back for the Nittany Lions, Congdon was a former high school basketball captain from Forest City adjusting to campus life.
Their relationship blossomed in early 2017, with Congdon stepping into Barkley's world of fraternity formals and intense public scrutiny long before his professional career began. She publicly celebrated his 20th birthday in February 2017, signaling their solid bond. Their lives changed forever on April 24, 2018, when Anna gave birth to their first child, Jada Clare Barkley. In a cinematic twist, this was just two days before the New York Giants drafted Barkley as the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft, with the new father still wearing his hospital bracelet on stage.
The Pillar of Stability: Anna Congdon's Role
Anna Congdon is far more than a familiar face in the stands. Barkley consistently credits her as the stabilizing force in his life amidst the relentless motion of the NFL. She was the driving factor behind his decision to return to Penn State to complete his degree, which he achieved in 2022. In interviews, he has grouped her with his parents and coaches as key influences who "pushed" him to accomplish this goal.
Her support has been public and steadfast. She has walked red carpets with him at events like the 2024 NFL Honors and the 2025 Super Bowl ring ceremony. Her social media is filled with tributes, from rallying votes for his Walter Payton Man of the Year nomination to celebrating his on-field milestones with heartfelt messages like, "You outshine the morning sun."
However, their journey has not been without public challenges. When their engagement was announced in February 2025, old, offensive tweets from Congdon's teenage years resurfaced, sparking immediate backlash. She responded by deleting the posts, locking her accounts temporarily, and issuing a direct apology, stating the words did not reflect the person she is today. Barkley stood firmly by her side, publicly affirming his belief in personal growth and family strength.
Fatherhood First: How Jada and Saquon Jr. Shape His World
Saquon Barkley's identity as a father is central to his being. His children are not just occasional accessories for sideline photos; they are the core motivation behind his decisions. He has stated that every business deal, investment, and career move is filtered through the lens of what it means for his family.
Jada Clare Barkley, born in 2018, has been a part of his NFL narrative from day one. The Amazon Prime Video documentary "SAQUON" captures tender moments like Barkley fixing her tiny headband or carrying her on his hip across the field. Before a pivotal NFC Championship Game in 2025, the two shared a full secret handshake, ending with Jada saying, "Love you, daddy."
Their son, Saquon Barkley Jr. (often called S.J.), was born in September 2022. Barkley has described him as a blessing with an "amazing smile" that lights up the room, while praising Jada as an "amazing big sister." These family moments—whether it's a living room tea party or a post-Super Bowl victory hug—are what Barkley defines as the true milestones of his life, beyond any rushing yard record.
Through team changes, from the New York Giants to the Philadelphia Eagles, through injuries, accolades, and the pressure of professional sports, the constant for Saquon Barkley has been his family. Anna Congdon, Jada, and Saquon Jr. are the reason he strives, the sanctuary he returns to, and the living proof that his most important goals extend far beyond the end zone.
