Donovan McNabb says Saquon Barkley touchdown the “Madden NFL 26” cowl is “completely well-deserved” … however breathe simple, Eagles followers — the previous face of the sport tells TMZ Sports activities he does not consider within the notorious “curse” surrounding the respect.

We caught up with McNabb — who graced the quilt of the enduring sequence again in 2005 for “Madden NFL 06” — and talked to him all concerning the operating again becoming a member of him as the one different Philly nice to obtain the popularity.

McNabb believes the oldsters at EA Sports activities would have made the proper name in both Barkley or quarterback Jalen Hurts … particularly after what they have been in a position to accomplish in successful a Tremendous Bowl this previous season.

“I believe for the Philadelphia Eagles group, it is all the time a superb factor when you’ve a illustration of your group and the success that you have had, particularly main into the following season,” McNabb mentioned … including he is an enormous fan of what Barkley has accomplished to date in his profession.

Not solely is Barkley’s dominance large for the Eagles, McNabb identified it will have an effect on all operating backs … as it is a reminder of simply how essential success on the place is to the passing recreation.

As for being the “Madden” man, McNabb opened up on what it was like for him … saying it places gamers on one other stage of recognition — which additionally comes with extra expectations.

However Barkley should not be hesitant about getting “cursed” — McNabb, who underwent season-ending surgical procedure to restore a sports activities hernia throughout his cowl yr, advised us he does not consider in that speak … and he thinks there’s proof it is a bunch of nonsense.

“For Saquon, I believe that is one [thing] he does not should deal with,” McNabb mentioned. “I consider with that, and simply proceed to grind and prepare for a brand new season and hopefully the identical end result.”