Saquon Barkley, the star running back for the New York Giants, finds himself at a crossroads as extension talks with the team have come to a halt. With the options of playing under the franchise tag or resorting to a holdout, Barkley faces a tough decision that could have significant implications for his future in the NFL.

As negotiations with the Giants failed to yield a satisfying long-term deal, Barkley is contemplating the “nuclear option.”

This would involve refusing to sign the franchise tag and sitting out the entire 2023 season, a tactic previously used by Le’Veon Bell in 2018. While Barkley acknowledges it’s not his preferred route, he is considering it as a potential leverage play.

During an interview on “The Money Matters” podcast, Barkley revealed his mixed feelings about the situation. On one hand, he doesn’t want to disappoint his teammates or the Giants’ fans. On the other hand, he wants to be compensated fairly and has concerns about the team’s valuation of him as a player. Barkley’s desire to win a championship for New York adds complexity to his decision.

Also Read: Saquon Barkley and Giants do not reach contract agreement by deadline: What happens now?

By skipping training camp, Barkley will avoid fines from the Giants, but missing regular-season games would cost him significant money and potentially weaken the team’s performance.

Looking at the example of Le’Veon Bell, who sat out a season in a similar situation, Barkley is cautious about the consequences of such a move. He understands that he needs to strategize and consider all factors before making a decision.

As Saquon Barkley ponders his next move, the Giants and their fans await news of his decision. A talented and beloved player, Barkley’s future on the team hangs in the balance as he navigates the complex world of NFL contract negotiations.

Also Read: New York Giants improve Saquon Barkley’s offer ahead of deadline day | Complete contract details

The final outcome will not only impact his career but also set a precedent for how running backs negotiate their contracts in the league. As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on Barkley as he contemplates the best path forward.