Saquon Barkley's issues with Giants are far from over
Just when you thought the New York Giants were going to be without their star player as camp started, they pulled a fast one on the NFL world. Saquon Barkley is reportedly already in the building, meaning he will be full go for the start of camp, and more importantly the season. But if you […]
Just when you thought the New York Giants were going to be without their star player as camp started, they pulled a fast one on the NFL world.
Saquon Barkley is reportedly already in the building, meaning he will be full go for the start of camp, and more importantly the season.
But if you believe the struggle between New York and Barkley is over…
I have a bridge in Brooklyn to sell to you:
Same Scenario Again Next Year?
So here's the thing about Saquon's one-year deal. Yes, he gets the same amount of guaranteed money as the franchise tag ($10.1 million) and because $2 million comes via signing bonus, he receives that money upfront, instead of having to wait the duration of the season for his total salary. Add in up to $1 million from incentives, and Barkley beat the number he was set to make in 2023.
But here's the kicker… Barkley and the Giants are likely to be in this exact scenario next year. Why? Because the key aspect missing in his one-year contract is the right to refuse the franchise tag. That means New York can tag Barkley once again, with us all taking another ride on the merry-go-round.
So while this morning's news is good for all parties involved, this contract is merely patchwork on a sinking ship. Barkley will have to re-live the offseason contract struggles of 2023, but probably in a worse fashion when you consider he will be a year older, with added miles on his engine.
So a celebration is fine in the short term, but this is merely an intermission to an evolving saga.
Giants, Saquon Barkley throw the NFL a curveball
The two parties sent shockwaves throughout the league thanks to a big decision.
Featured image via: © Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports
