The New York Giants will be prepared to offer Saquon Barkley the franchise tag for the second year in a row this summer.
The great running back is displeased with the Giants’ refusal to sign him to a lucrative multi-year contract.
According to Yahoo Sports’ Jason Owens, Barkley was forthright about the potential looming offer:
“They did it last year, so I’m numb to it,” Barkley admitted. “I have no feelings about it at all.” If you’re going to do it, don’t wait until March 5th. Just get it out of the way. If not, please excuse me. Simple.”
Following a 9-7 season and their first playoff trip since 2016, the Giants signed QB Daniel Jones to a four-year, $160 million contract last year.
Barkley accepted the franchise tag but has been open about how it does not fit well with him during the 2023 season.
Despite the label’s connotations, Barkley was the eighth-highest-paid running back in 2023, tied with Tony Pollard on a $10.09 million contract, according to USA Today.
Barkley, 26, has battled ailments that have limited his playing time. Most recently, he missed three regular-season games this year due to a high ankle injury suffered in Week 2.
Despite this, Barkley finished with 962 running yards and a Pro Football Focus playing rating of 70.2. His 68.7 yards per game would have placed him on pace to finish with 1,168 yards, which would have ranked third in the NFL behind Los Angeles Rams RB Kyren Williams.
Barkley’s production clearly places him among the league’s finest rushers. It’s becoming increasingly evident that he is New York’s most important asset, particularly on the attacking side of the ball.
The Giants have been hesitant to formally commit to provide Barkley with the long-term security and money he seeks and is worth. Nonetheless, the front office will have to make a critical choice between now and March 5.
The Giants’ depth chart at quarterback will be more than adequate moving into next season, thanks to a plethora of quarterbacks on the roster and in the forthcoming 2024 NFL Draft. At running back, the reverse is true. If Barkley retires later this season, the Giants may look back and regret not doing everything possible.