The New York Giants have some interesting decisions to make during the offseason with free agents, including running back Saquon Barkley. With the season over, he is technically a free agent but on Monday morning, Barkley made a revelation that he is getting numb to the process of the franchise tag.
Saquon Barkley said he won’t be going up for an individual exit interview today. He said the Giants know how to reach him. Asked about the franchise tag, Barkley says:
“They did it last year. So I’m numb to it. I don’t have any feelings toward that at all. If you’re gonna do it,… pic.twitter.com/508Ya6AMAg
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) January 8, 2024
The New York Giants placed Saquon Barkley on the $10.091 million non-exclusive franchise tag last season and as a result, can still tag him again this offseason. However, with this potentially being his second franchise tag, he would get a 120% increase from his 2023 salary, which would be $12.109 million. There is also the option for the Giants to agree to a longer-term deal.
It will be interesting to see what the two sides can do as they would love to agree to a longer-term deal if possible. Saquon Barkley had a strong season as he finished with 247 rushing attempts for 962 yards (3.9 yards per carry) with six rushing touchdowns as well as 41 catches for 280 yards (6.8 yards per reception) with four touchdown catches.
Should the New York Giants franchise tag Saquon Barkley for the 2024 season?
The New York Giants have been struggling but they have one of the better running backs in the sport so things are going to be interesting to see how they progress. The Giants have a big issue on the offensive line though as they allowed the second-most sacks in NFL history. That means the offensive line needs to improve if they want to improve going forward as a team.
In terms of Saquon Barkley, he is the top playmaker on the team and losing him would be a huge blow for the team going forward. With Daniel Jones expected to return in time for Week 1, this offense has proven to do enough to be a playoff contender when healthy. Barkley is going to be a positive player and would give the Giants a one-year window before they can decide if they want to move on from both Jones and Barkley.
However, it is important to save some money on the cap by getting a longer deal done. That way a smaller percentage of the cap is taken up. The New York Giants are going to go as far as Saquon Barkley takes them with the quarterbacks on the roster.
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