Barry Sanders on the importance of running backs in today’s NFL
Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders believes we are seeing a resurgence in the RB position in today’s league.
Sports Seriously
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has teamed up with Nationwide for a new television commercial.
Barkley joined longtime Nationwide spokesperson and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning in the Columbus company’s latest spot, which debuted during the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft on April 24.
Manning tells viewers that Nationwide is so much more than an insurance company, just like Barkley is so much more than an All-Pro running back. Barkley says he’s also “Stay-Calm Barkley,” as he helps teammates and coaches remain calm in stressful situations.
“It’s every running back’s dream to be on a great team with a great quarterback. I get both as part of my new partnership with Nationwide,” Barkley said, according to a new release on the company’s website. “To be able to work alongside Peyton Manning and Nationwide, a brand that truly cares about their customers and the community, is an honor!”
Ann Bair, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Nationwide, said the company was thrilled to feature the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year, one of the most well-liked and accomplished players in the NFL today, in the company’s ad campaign.
“As dynamic as he is on the field, he brings that same energy to positively impact his community,” Bair said, according to a post on the company’s website. “Saquon is a two-time nominee for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, presented by Nationwide, and is a strong fit with our brand and core values.”
Watch the ad below.
Eastern suburbs reporter Maria DeVito can be reached at mdevito@dispatch.com and @mariadevito13.dispatch.com on Bluesky and @MariaDeVito13 on X.
