The Dallas Cowboys will be opening the 2023 NFL season in two months, which will be here before we know it. It's only fitting that the first game of the season is against the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football.

There will be no shortage of storylines surrounding the matchup between the two storied NFC East rivals. However, the latest NFL news suggests that there is one storyline in particular that is worth paying close attention to.

As it stands, star running back Saquon Barkley is waiting on a contract extension from the Giants. The two sides have yet to agree to a deal that satisfies both parties. ESPN insider Dianna Russini has reported that there is a possibility that Barkley does not play week one without a new contract signed.

Barkley is adamant about not wanting to play on the franchise tag after rushing for 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns during the 2022 season. It was a big-time bounce back campaign for the Pro Bowl back.

Russini is reporting that without a long-term deal finalized, Barkley's availability for the season opener "will be in serious question." Which would obviously give the Cowboys a big advantage in week one.

Saquon Barkley has made it clear the franchise tag is undesirable. I’m told his availability for Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys will be in serious question if he does not get a long-term deal from the Giants.

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) July 12, 2023

Barkley is the engine of the Giants' offense. He's a difference-making talent running and receiving the ball. There is no doubt that that he is the focal point of game plans and that his presence helps Daniel Jones.

But there is real risk in paying and extending running backs due to how physical the position is and the wear and tear that come with it. Dallas saw that firsthand when they paid Ezekiel Elliott, especially during the latter stages of his time on the roster.

Nevertheless, if Barkley were to miss week one, the Cowboys' defense would be licking its chops. That would be one less weapon that Dallas would have to worry about, opening the door for Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs to make even more plays.

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Featured image via USA TODAY Sports