The New York Giants are set to start their training camp on July 25 with their star player Saquon Barkley’s future hanging in the balance after failing to reach a long-term contract extension by Monday’s deadline. Despite spending a phenomenal season last year and earning his second Pro Bowl to lead the Giants to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, Barkley’s uncertain future may affect his on-field motivation.
Amid the RB’s issue, Big Blue signed running back James Robinson and receiver Cole Beasley, giving Robinson the opportunity to be a starter if their stalemate with Barkley drags on in the upcoming days.
Giants left with big task of filling RB depth
After being drafted with the No. 2 overall draft pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Saquon didn’t fail to amaze the football fans. He moonlighted as a hero in the last season by recording 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns along with 57 catches for 338 receiving yards. The football star would have to play the upcoming season for the tag-mandated $10.1 million salary or he might be seen taking the season off.
With only a few days remaining until the opening of training camp, the Giants’ move of signing Robinson and Beasley raised eyebrows among fans. Beasley’s addition to the team reunites him with his former Buffallo’s offensive coordinator and Giants’ present head coach Brian Daboll. The receiver is set to enter his 12th NFL season after breaking out under Daboll in 2020 with 82 catches and 967 yards.
Meanwhile, Robinson ran for 1,070 yards and seven scores along with 344 yards received and three more touchdowns with Jacksonville in 2020, albeit he couldn’t continue his form following a torn Achilles he suffered in 2021.
Giants sign RB James Robinson
James finished his rookie season with 1,414 scrimmage yards which dropped down to 989 scrimmage yards in 2021 and the presence of a Travis Etienne led Jacksonville to trade him to the New York Jets in October last season.
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The former Illinois State back signed with the New England Patriots as a free agent this Spring and his deal with the team included injury waivers for his right knee, left knee as well as left Achilles. New England waived him later due to his lack of explosiveness during the OTA session.
Barkley has not yet signed his one-year contract with the Giants and he has recently discussed the possibility of holding out during training camp and skipping regular season games as well.
What’s your take on the Giants’ recent additions? You can share your opinions with us in the comments.
