Despite mounting pressure and negotiations, the New York Giants and star running back Saquon Barkley could not reach a long-term contract agreement by the Monday deadline. As a result, Barkley and the Giants are unable to revisit talks for a new contract extension until after the 2023 season.
Barkley took to Twitter minutes before the deadline, expressing his resignation with a tweet that read, “It is what it is.” It is expected that he will not sign the franchise tag worth $10.1 million guaranteed, and he may not report to training camp along with the team’s veterans.
The Giants’ general manager, Joe Schoen, has been navigating contract extensions for key players, including Barkley and quarterback Daniel Jones. While the team is prepared to have Barkley play on the franchise tag, the negotiations have reached an impasse, with Barkley reportedly seeking significant guarantees in a multi-year deal.
The Giants’ offer has included around $22 million in guarantees, but Barkley’s camp may be looking for more assurance, given the possibility of a second franchise tag next year. If no agreement is reached, Barkley could let the situation linger through training camp, but missing games would result in a decrease in the tag value per week.
With the uncertainty of Barkley’s future beyond the 2023 season, the Giants will have to weigh their options and prepare for various scenarios. Despite recently securing contracts for other key players, the negotiations with Barkley present unique challenges due to his position and the franchise tag.
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Now, it remains to be seen how both parties will navigate the aftermath of the contract deadline and what the future holds for Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants.