The New York Giants entered the 2023 NFL offseason with two major budgetary concerns in mind.
One of those concerns was the contract of Daniel Jones, who the team has recently extended.
The other, was the contract of Saquon Barkley, who the team decided to franchise tag, rather than sign a multi-year extension.
Barkley was initially said to be upset with the franchise tag designation, given the lack of certainty for the future.
However, in a recent conversation with The Morning Call, Barkley commented on the situation, saying “Whatever happens, happens.”
Saquon Barkley on contract: Whatever happens, happens.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 23, 2023
As Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk highlights, Barkley and the Giants still have time.
The two parties have until July 17th to figure out a longer contract.
If a deal isn’t worked out by then, Barkley may have no choice but to sign his franchise tag, playing for the Giants for one more season.
The NFL has, for the most part, transitioned to a pass-first league.
While running backs such as Barkley are still incredibly valuable to a team, their role is diminished, compared to how backs were used 20 years ago.
Because of this shift, fewer and fewer running backs are given long contracts and are often forced to sign smaller deals.
However, Barkley is still seen as a premier back in the league.
If anyone is going to sign a multi-year deal, it would be Barkley, given his track record with the Giants.
Barkley has recently sat out involuntary team activities, in light of the franchise tag being placed on him.
Will the team make a deal with him soon?
NEXT:
Giants GM Names 1 Skill Position They’re Unlikely To Pursue In Draft
