4 NY Giants Joe Schoen was right to part ways with after 2023

1. RB Saquon Barkley

The Giants' backfield will look completely different in 2024, as the team will be without star running back Saquon Barkley. Not only will No. 26 not be in New York next season, but he will be facing the Giants twice as a member of the NFC East rival Philadelphia Eagles. While this news may upset many Giants fans, the team can finally rebuild at the running back position. 

Saquon spent the last six seasons with the G-Men after being drafted by the organization with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. During his tenure with the Giants, Barkley became a two-time Pro Bowler and earned the honor of the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year back in '18.

While Barkley became a fan favorite on and off the field in NY, injuries and his inability to stay healthy became a significant concern. Although Barkley expressed his desire to be a 'Giant for life' and play his entire NFL career in New York, Schoen and the Giants' front office were unwilling to pay the star running back the kind of money he was hoping for.

The Giants brought in veteran running back Devin Singletary this offseason in free agency. 'Motor' will take over in Big Blue's backfield as the team's top running back. New York also welcomed Tyrone Tracy Jr. via the NFL Draft. The Giants' fifth-round pick might be this year's hidden gem, as he can make a difference on offense and special teams. Barkley wanted head-turning money and there was no way Schoen was going to give it to him. Letting him walk was tough, but it was the right move.