The New York Giants have been rumored to not resign their star running back Saquon Barkley this offseason, which would make him one of the biggest targets for NFL teams in free agency. Barkley has been rumored to be on a new squad since the trade deadline back in October but ended up remaining with the Giants for the rest of the 2023 season. However, New York has now decided on whether they will retain the star running back or let him explore the open market, and Giants fans will not be happy about the decision.
New York Giants Make Decision On Saquon Barkley
According to ESPN, the Giants have decided that they will not be placing a franchise tag on the star running back, which will let him be free to explore the open market in March. There have been many teams that have shown interest in Barkley, including an unknown NFC East team, and the Los Angeles Chargers. However, after hiring new head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers open up as the favorites to land the superstar.
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Star Running Back Wanted To Remain A Giant
Barkley has stated previously that he would like to remain a “Giant for life” during an interview done by ESPN. Here is what he had to say about remaining in New York:
I know how special the Giants organization is. I have nothing but tremendous respect for the Tisch family and the Mara family. This is the team that drafted me. I’m a big believer in setting and accomplishing goals.
When I got drafted here, it was to be why the Giants was back on top and why we were having a parade in New York. It just hasn’t gone that way so far in my career. Like I said before, I want to be a Giant for life. I mentioned that I want to be in the likes of Tiki [Barber], Michael [Strahan], Eli [Manning].
Where Will Barkley End Up?
Even though the star running back has said that he would like to remain with the Giants for the rest of his career, he also understands the unfortunate reality of NFL free agency. He has gone through various contract negotiations with the team since last season, causing him to be franchise-tagged by New York for the 2023 season. Now, it looks like the team will not be bringing him back, which can make for a big-time signing for another organization.
Where do you think Barkley will sign this offseason, and will he remain in the NFC East, or perhaps sign with another team potentially looking for a new running back like the Chargers?