Giants GM Joe Schoen gives an optimistic update on upcoming negotiations with RB Saquon Barkley
The next two weeks will be busy for the New York Giants and running back Saquon Barkley. After playing last year on a renegotiated one-year deal that gave him slightly more than the franchise tag would've, Barkley is scheduled to enter free agency for the very first time in his career.General manager Joe Schoen is […]
The next two weeks will be busy for the New York Giants and running back Saquon Barkley.
After playing last year on a renegotiated one-year deal that gave him slightly more than the franchise tag would've, Barkley is scheduled to enter free agency for the very first time in his career.
General manager Joe Schoen is hopeful that doesn't happen.
In speaking to media at the NFL Scouting Combine, Schoen stated his thoughts and evaluation on Barkley hasn't changed, but one thing in particular is different about negotiations this time around.
"I wouldn't say his value has changed, especially in the organization," Schoen said. "He's a captain, he's a leader. He's a hard worker. I think the world of Saquon and I still think he can play. So my value for Saquon really hasn't changed.
"Unfortunately, throughout the process, starting back in November of 2022 we weren't able to come to an agreement in terms of where we were thought a deal made sense. So we'll circle back again. He has a new agent, Ed Berry, who we have a really good relationship with. So I look forward to sitting down and having conversations with him."
How the Giants can re-sign running back Saquon Barkley
Having an existing productive relationship with Barkley's new agent is a plus, but what really comes into play is really out of Barkley's control.
Despite Schoen's convictions towards what the 27-year old player, he'll be looking at negotiations from another point of view.
"Running back market value."
A to Z Sports' Josh Queipo and Kyle Dediminicantanio project Barkley to earn a three-year, $31.5 million deal with $15 million guaranteed. That would be the fifth-most guaranteed money in a veteran running back contract, and his average annual value would increase to $10.5 million, which would also be the fifth-most for vets.
How the market plays out for Barkley's position should ultimately determine the Giants' willingness to pay him. Schoen and Berry will engage in talks in the coming days, and if there's an understanding, a deal could come before the market even opens.
Schoen is approaching it with the correct mindset, no matter how what outcome turns out to be.
