The New York Giants star running, Saquon Barkley is set to test free agency next month. Giants are expected to grant his wish, but they remain interested in a deal. In this scenario, they’re leaving Barkley in the hands of the open market. This is similar to the same process when the Baltimore Ravens placed a non-exclusive franchise tag on Lamar Jackson.
The Giants are allowing teams to submit their offers and see where it goes from there. However, it was more naught from the Ravens’ effort. New York’s strategy could potentially work a little better since an unrestricted free agent wouldn’t pose the same risks. Baltimore was close to not retaining Jackson back, but it’s much easier for the Giants to get their star back in New York.
However, New York could place a franchise tag on Barkley for a second consecutive year until they figure out how to pay him. Likely, they won’t do this though once the market opens and front offices start making offers. It’s interesting how New York is doing this and is hesitating on paying their top running back. Barkley is already getting interested in playing in a different uniform next season.
The Los Angeles Chargers are one team that is on Barkley’s mind. He’s open to playing for the Bolts next season, so the Jim Harbaugh effect could be attracting his interest to play under that new scenery. The Chargers have become a more intriguing option for free agents to consider a place to sign with.
The New York Giants are expected to let Saquon Barkley test free agency but remain interested in a deal. pic.twitter.com/qvdngXAoYS
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) February 12, 2024
New York Giants Star Running Back Saquon Barkley To Test Free Agency
Could He Be LA-Bound?
Barkley cited Harbaugh and his prior accomplishments would not be a land spot to begin his new journey with the Chargers. It wouldn’t be a bad idea either as they’re set to let Austin Ekeler go in the free agency. However, Harbaugh does want Ekeler back, but those words could all change once he sees what the market has to offer. The Chargers could easily see Barkley and offer him a huge contract that probably Barkley won’t turn down.
However, it’s interesting that the Giants still have that franchise tag so those dreams may be cut short if that’s what Barkley truly wants. Barkley admires Harbaugh and the success he’s had in the NFL.
“I have nothing but respect for Coach Harbaugh, obviously the success he had in the NFL before, playing against him in college,” Barkley told Kay Adams. “If the opportunity were to present itself, I definitely wouldn’t be against it.”
Barkley joining quarterback Justin Herbert wouldn’t sound like a bad deal for both sides. This would be bad news for the Giants as they may miss out on having one of their best players go to a new team. However, the good news for them is that the Chargers don’t have the cap space to spend heavily. Barkley still has options though once the market opens.
He Remains Open To Coming Back to New York
Barkley remains open on a handshake agreement to come back to the New York Giants. He’s also content if the path takes him elsewhere. However, the saga could officially be over after spending his NFL career with the Giants. Barkley had 1,242 scrimmage yards and 10 total touchdowns in 14 games for the 2023 season.
Any team who can get their hands on Barkley is getting a player who is still demonstrating effectiveness with the football in his palms. He had the eighth-most breakaway runs and finished with the fifth-highest target share amongst other running backs. He could mold himself in a new scenery if the Giants allow him to when the time comes.
