Contract disagreements have plagued Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants throughout the offseason. These challenges have been intensified by his persistent injury struggles, making him one of the most frustrated players when it comes to negotiating a new contract.
With the offseason approaching, speculation surrounding the running back’s future has become a focal point of discussion. Recent reports have stirred up speculation, suggesting potential outcomes that might not meet the expectations of his fans regarding the Giants’ intentions with him.
Giants and Saquon Barkley negotiating new contract without $12M franchise tag
While Saquon Barkley is eying for Lombardi trophy, the likelihood of the Chargers placing the franchise tag on him seems slim, as reports from Adam Schefter suggest that the team is leaning more towards engaging in negotiations for a deal with the impending free agent.
Meanwhile, they appear hesitant to utilize the franchise tag, set at $12,109,200, signaling a strategic approach to the upcoming negotiations.
Addressing the potential of being tagged during New York’s year-end locker room availability, the vet running back expressed a sense of resignation.
“They did it last year, so I’m numb to it. I don’t have any feelings toward that at all,” he said, per Sporting News.
This sentiment reflects his familiarity with the situation, having played the 2023 NFL season under the franchise tag due to failed contract extension negotiations with the Giants, which prompted him to miss the training camp.
Even after the Giants tried to bind Barkley in with a three-year deal and used the franchise tag as a bargaining chip, he turned down all offers and ended up playing the last season under the franchise tag. Finally, his choice resulted in the Giants securing him $23 million over a two-year period.
While he remains a pivotal component of the Giants’ offense, concerns loom over his injury history after he missed a significant number of games over the past four seasons. This raises questions about the team’s long-term strategy and whether they may opt to pursue younger talent in the backfield, despite Barkley’s established importance to their offensive scheme.
Best landing spots for Saquon Barkley?
The Giants do not plan on placing the tag on Saquon Barkley again, letting him test the open waters. Meanwhile, many reports have come out suggesting potential destinations for Barkley.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
If the Buccaneers opt to kick off their season with Baker Mayfield at the helm, it appears that Saquon Barkley could emerge as a potential target for the team to enhance their offensive arsenal, particularly given their dismal performance in rushing yards last season, where they ranked last in the NFL.
Despite battling through challenges within a struggling Giants offense last season, Barkley still racked up 1,242 total yards and scored 10 touchdowns. Pairing Mayfield with the standout running back could give the Buccaneers a powerful offensive duo, possibly moving them closer to their Super Bowl goals.
Houston Texans
According to insights from ESPN’s Jeremy Flower, the Texans may be looking to fortify their running back position in the upcoming free agency period to bolster their offensive capabilities and provide support for second-year quarterback CJ Stroud. With ambitions of reclaiming a spot in playoff contention, the Texans may find themselves in the market for a new starting running back to bolster their roster.
Chicago Bears
As the Bears hold the prestigious No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, they find themselves in a position of power, with the opportunity to select either Drake Maye or Caleb Williams as potential replacements for quarterback Justin Fields. Incorporating Barkley into their offensive lineup would undoubtedly serve as an enhancement, potentially granting him a prominent role within the team’s gameplay.
Dallas Cowboys
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has previously expressed his desire to have a more hands-on approach to shaping the team’s offense. With Tony Pollard’s inability to sustain his effectiveness as the team’s primary running back last season, coupled with his impending free-agency status, the Cowboys may be in the market for an upgraded option in the backfield.
Barkley’s versatility could prove invaluable, as he possesses the ability to contribute as a receiver coming out of the backfield.
Share your own projected destinations for the Giants’ running back in the comment box.
