After missing out on a trip to New York City for the Heisman Trophy presentation, Penn State star running back Saquon Barkley posted his thoughts on Instagram.

“Thank you to all of my fans and teammates for the consideration! However, like I stated previously I do not need a trophy or to be named a finalist to define me as a player,” Barkley wrote.

Voters selected Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield, Stanford running back Bryce Love, and Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson as the three finalists.

“I’ve earned the respect from my teammates and coaches, therefore, at the end of the day that’s the only thing that matters!” Barkley continued. “Congratulations to all the deserving Heisman finalists! Once again thank you! #WeAre”

Thank you to all of my fans and teammates for the consideration! However, like I stated previously I do not need a trophy or to be named a finalist to define me as a player. I’ve earned the respect from my teammates and coaches, therefore, at the end of the day that’s the only thing that matters! Congratulations to all the deserving Heisman finalists! Once again thank you! #WeAre

A post shared by Saquon Barkley (@sb_xxvi) on Dec 4, 2017 at 7:46pm PST

Barkley did take home his second-straight Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award, as well as the honor for being the top return specialist in the conference.

While a potential top five selection in the NFL Draft could await him in April, one of the all-time greats to don a Penn State jersey still has at least one game left for the Nittany Lions.

About the Author

David Abruzzese

David is a senior from Rochester, NY, nestled right in beautiful Western New York. He is majoring in Broadcast Journalism, and as an avid sports fan, he passionately supports the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. He is the first Penn Stater from his family, and couldn’t be prouder to represent Penn State University. In his free time, he likes to alpine ski, and play golf. You can follow him on Twitter @abruz11, and can contact him via email at davidabruzzese@onwardstate.com.

How Centre County Voted In The 2026 Midterm Elections

Centre County saw a 55.32% voter turnout rate in the general election.

Man Accused of Stealing Vehicle From State College Hotel & Driving Drunk

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for November 12.

‘Blood In The Water’: Penn State Football Cornerback Audavion Collins & Secondary Elevating Surrounding Units

“He does a good job of making everyone else around him better because he’s the hardest-working guy on the field at all times.”