The 2024 free agency class is expected to be packed with talent. Standing out on the list — at least potentially — is two-time Pro Bowler Saquon Barkley, who has yet to secure a new deal with the New York Giants.
It’s still very much possible that Barkley irons things out with the Giants and he ends up suiting up for them again next season. However, you can be sure that teams from around the NFL are already keeping a keen eye on his situation as the possibility of a New York exit looming.
Saquon Barkley to Part Ways With New York Giants?
Barkley himself has already made it abundantly clear that if it were up to him, he would like to remain in New York. However, at the end of the day, money talks.
While negotiations on a new deal continue, multiple reports have already indicated that Barkley could be headed to free agency. The Giants are reportedly not expected to use the franchise tag on the 27-year-old for a second straight season, which only means that unless both parties agree on a deal, Barkley is going to be a free agent.
At this point, it seems that Barkley and the Giants remain quite a ways away from finding common ground.
Ravens, Bears Could Land Barkley in Free Agency
Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report has already drawn up a handful of potential landing spots for Barkley if he ultimately decides to test the market. Two of those teams are the Baltimore Ravens and the Chicago Bears.
Ballentine argues that a Lamar Jackson-Saquon Barkley pairing would do wonders for Baltimore. The Ravens remain to be one of the top rushing teams in the entire NFL, and Barkley would likely flourish in their system.
“Jackson led the team with 821 yards on 148 carries, but it’s fair to wonder if the Ravens should lighten his rushing load as he continues to get older. Pairing him with a star running back could be a way to do that,” Ballentine suggested.
The Bears could make their move as well. They have the No. 1 pick of the upcoming NFL Draft, where they are likely going to select either Drake Maye or Caleb Williams as they look to move on from Justin Fields. Adding Barkley to a new-look offense could be what makes Chicago a contender in 2024.
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