The New York Giants have some tough decisions to make this offseason. One of those decisions is what to do with RB Saquon Barkley. The star running back is slated to be an unrestricted free agent. Now, there is an update on what may happen between the Giants and Barkley.
New York Giants Will Speak to Saquon Barkley
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the New York Giants plan to talk to Saquon Barkley before the free agency period begins. The discussion is reportedly going to be centered around the Giants potentially exploring a deal with Barkley. New York will see if they can come to an agreement with Barkley.
No Franchise Tag
One option that is not likely on the table for the Giants is the franchise tag. The Giants tried to do this to Barkley last offseason before eventually reaching a short-term agreement. However, the franchise tag is likely going to be too expensive for the Giants to do again this offseason.
Why is that? Because it would cost the Giants more than $12 million. New York does not appear to be willing to give a running back that kind of money. As a result, they will either have to come up with different contract terms or let Barkley walk.
Running Backs Not Getting Franchise Tag
Barkley is not the only notable running back that is likely to avoid the franchise tag. An earlier report revealed that Dallas Cowboys RB Tony Pollard, Tennessee Titans RB Derrick Henry, and Los Angeles Chargers RB Austin Ekeler are also unlikely to have the franchise tag placed on them. As a result, this year’s running back class in free agency is looking like it will be very deep.
New York Giants Moving Forward
Will the New York Giants really let Barkley walk? He has been on the Giants for six seasons and appears to be in the prime of his career. Last season, Barkley had 962 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns in 14 games.
Part of the problem for New York is the lack of available cap space. The Giants are projected to have around $32 million in salary cap space thanks to the recent increase announcement. Still, when about $40 million is being taken up by a player that may not be on the team past 2024 (Daniel Jones), it does limit a team’s options to move forward.
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