Why Giants fans don't need to panic about the Saquon Barkley situation
There's no reason to hit the panic button quite yet, New York Giants fans. It can be a bit unnerving when a star player is away from their team due to a contract dispute. That's case for Giants running back Saquon Barkley right now. After not reaching a long-term agreement, the Giants attempted to sign […]
There's no reason to hit the panic button quite yet, New York Giants fans. It can be a bit unnerving when a star player is away from their team due to a contract dispute. That's case for Giants running back Saquon Barkley right now.
After not reaching a long-term agreement, the Giants attempted to sign Barkley to the franchise tag. Barkley and his camp chose to avoid that route. So, for now, Barkley is working out on his own and preparing for next season.
Of course, speculation will happen, so fans are concerned that the running back may be on another team sooner rather than later. Just pump the brakes. This isn't uncommon, especially for running backs in today's NFL.
Organizations are more timid than in years past to pay a RB on a long-term deal. Age affects them heavily, and Barkley has seen his fair share of injuries. That being said, we all know what he adds to the offense for the Giants. Daniel Jones would not be the same QB without Barkley going forward.
Regardless, the sides have not reached a hostile point. These processes can be drawn out, but it is only April. We haven't even reached the NFL Draft point of this off-season, so there is plenty of time for the two to come to an agreement that both sides believe is fair.
Adam Schein, of NFL.com, broke down the situation as well. He believes that fans should be patient, too.
The Giants actually have until July 15 to reach a long-term deal with the former No. 2 overall pick. But given Barkley's injury history, position and Big Blue's financial commitments elsewhere (remember, Dexter Lawrence, who's also skipping these workouts, still needs a long-term deal), that doesn't seem likely. Barkley knows this. I don't foresee him sitting out the season, which is really all that matters. Barkley missing the offseason — even missing training camp — isn't the end of the world for Brian Daboll and Co. — Schein
Let the situation play out, and go from there, fans. The Giants assuredly have a plan in place regarding Barkley. For now, focus on the draft and the free agency moves that could follow it.
