The story of the Saquon Barkley era with the New York Giants will always be one of disappointment. 

For all the talent Barkley has, the Giants only have two playoff games to show for it. And after the contract standoff during the 2023 offseason, the writing may be on the wall for his future in New York. 

Recently, in an interview with Complex, Barkley admitted that he is now open to a future where he isn't in a Giants uniform – something that felt far off three seasons ago. 

"It's rare for a guy to be on one team his whole career. But what I love to be in the likes of Eli Manning, Michael Strahan and Tiki Barber," Barkley said. "Yeah, but at the same time, I'm not naive, and I'm not. I'm not a fool anymore. I'm at ease that whatever happens, I would love for it to be done, but if it can't and I'm able to move on, I would love to go to a team where I can help them win the Super Bowl for sure."

During the Giants' last contract standoff with Barkley, the running back eventually caved and signed the franchise tag. What followed was a mixed season of injuries and a rather underwhelming season. 

In 14 games, Barkley racked up 962 yards and six touchdowns. 

It was a significant dip in his 2022 production that saw him pile up 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns. 

The story of the lack of long-term contracts for Barkley resides in his inability to stay healthy. 2022 was his only healthy season in nearly three years. 

Despite Barkley's brilliance through flash-point moments, it has not resulted in sustained success. The Giants appear ready to move on, and Barkley appears open to the idea of a new team sooner rather than later. 

"I've been able to make fans with the stuff I do on the field and the stuff I do in my community," Barkley said of how he describes his time with the Giants. "I wouldn't trade anything for it."

Those words sound like ones that come from someone who is already halfway out the door. 

Giants RB Saquon Barkley open to a new team, and the Panthers should be on the shortlist

It sounds unbelievable to say, but the Carolina Panthers should be in the market for a new running back, and there is one name that could be open to sign.