As of this writing, there are five days until the deadline arrives for the NY Giants and star running back Saquon Barkley to come to terms on a new deal. If Barkley doesn't sign a new contact, then he'll be forced to play the 2023 campaign on the non-exclusive franchise tag.
However, it's not a lock that he'll take the field. According to insider Dianna Russini, Barkley has made it quite clear to Joe Schoen and the front office that he won't be happy if he ends up being tagged for the '23 campaign.
Not only that, she's reporting that his status for Week 1 will be in 'serious question' if he doesn't get his payday. It goes without saying, but this only adds to the anxiety for Big Blue supporters out there.
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 (@diannaESPN) July 12, 2023
Saquon Barkley could end up staying away from the team for Week 1
The thought of Barkley not suiting up with the Giants when they take on the Cowboys come Week 1 is a daunting one. No. 26 is easily the most explosive player on the NY offense and he'll be needed at MetLife Stadium if the G-Men want to post an upset for the Sunday Night Football showdown.
This contract drama has been present for months now, as Schoen and Barkley's reps can't seem to meet in the middle. The latest word is that the Giants could end up putting $13-14 million a year on the table with incentives. However, it's unknown how much guaranteed money is being presented.
Barkley is not only one of the best players for the Giants, but he's also one of the most dynamic players in the NFL. He posted a career-high 1,312 rushing yards last campaign, plus his 10 touchdowns. Schoen and Brian Daboll want to get things done with Saquon, but at the right price.
The confidence for Big Blue Nation that a contract will get signed by next Monday must be at an all-time low. It will be a nightmare for fans if Barkley not only doesn't sign, but also is missing for the first game of the regular season.
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