Chargers reportedly among many NFL teams seriously interested in RB Saquon Barkley

As the New York Giants aim to turn the page after a disappointing 6-11 season, the prospects of extending Saquon Barkley’s contract grow increasingly uncertain. The team seeks to revamp both offense and defense for a fresh start, but Barkley’s future with the Giants remains in doubt.

With each passing day, the likelihood of Barkley’s departure from the Giants becomes more pronounced. NFL analysts speculate about potential landing spots for the star running back, linking his name to several teams eager to bolster their rosters for the upcoming season.

Saquon Barkley attracts more NFL teams

Saquon Barkley is poised to hit the free-agent market, and teams across the league are vying for his services. According to reports from ESPN’s Jordan Rannan, the Los Angeles Chargers, Baltimore Ravens, and Chicago Bears are among the serious suitors eyeing Barkley.

But the interest doesn’t stop there. The Daily News has listed several potential landing spots for Barkley, including the Eagles, Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans. With the Giants opting not to place the franchise tag on him, his future remains uncertain, but the Texans may be eyeing to pair him with CJ Stroud, as reported by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

There’s still plenty of allure surrounding Barkley’s game, despite facing injury setbacks in recent seasons. Many believe that his talent and potential are enough to warrant a significant investment in free agency. It’s not uncommon for teams to be willing to stretch their budgets for a player of his caliber.

In 14 games last season, he racked up 962 rushing yards and six touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and a receiver with an additional 280 yards and four scores through the air.

NFL insider Adam Schefter has previously weighed in on the speculation, suggesting that Barkley could find himself in a new home with either the Eagles or the Dallas Cowboys. With both teams looking to bolster their backfield, he could be the missing piece to elevate their offenses to the next level.

What will the Giants have to pay to keep Saquon Barkley?

As the Giants decided to forgo the franchise tag on Saquon Barkley, the ballpark figure most executives and agents anticipate for Barkley is in the $10 million range. If the Giants opted to use the franchise tag, they would need to open their wallets wider than $12 million.

The player himself has been open about his intentions and aspirations. Following the Giants’ last regular-season game against the Eagles, he expressed a desire to win a Super Bowl, admitting that the notion of a “fresh start” elsewhere had crossed his mind. While he has also spoken about building a legacy with the Giants, the allure of a better chance at a Super Bowl win could sway him towards exploring opportunities beyond New York.

As his one-year contract with the Giants nears its end, there’s uncertainty surrounding his future with the team. The Giants must weigh the decision of whether to keep him and consider the financial implications involved.

The decision to retain Saquon Barkley could hinge on the offers he receives from other teams. If a contender presents a more enticing offer with better financial terms and a promising opportunity for Super Bowl contention, Barkley might part ways with the Giants.