While it hurts to see fan favorites walk away in any sport, it's often a necessary evil. Whether it's Tom Brady to Tampa, Aaron Rodgers to New York, or even Nick Saban to retirement - as fans, it never feels like the "right time." However, in this case, like many others, it's more than likely time to let go of the bond molded between New York Giants fans and star running back Saquon Barkley.
With reports from Ralph Vacchiano emerging that the Giants and Barkley are probably heading towards a divorce this offseason, talk show host Rich Eisen explained his opinion on why he thinks the Giants would be making a grave mistake. Was Eisen correct here?
Yup. @richeisen gets it.
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) January 12, 2024
“2-6 in New York is the guy. Get it done.”
“I understand you’re gonna play with fire with the running back, but the quarterback who looks overpaid and could cost jobs… “oh yea, we’re ready to go with him.” pic.twitter.com/ijVFw0h3nJ
The NY Giants have a tough call coming with Saquon Barkley this offseason
In principle, sure, it makes all the sense in the world to bring back the team's best offensive player. However, instead of acting based on emotion and love for No. 26, recent history shows that high-paying, long-term contract extensions for running backs often results in a negative return on investment.
While probably overused, there is merit in the statistic that since 2009, of all Super Bowl-winning teams, not one organization has paid their lead RB more than $2 million annually. Although it may seem otherwise, running backs are replaceable, and historically speaking, there are almost always better ways to spend in free agency.
Eisen's last point, referencing the "overpaid" quarterback in Daniel Jones, simply lacks common sense. While yes, Jones' contract certainly doesn't look great, and he had a tough year - none of that gives any more reason or rationale to sign Barkley to a deal. If anything, the opposite is true, as Barkley won't be turning the organization around single-handedly, and help is needed far more in other areas.
It's fair to see where Eisen is coming from, especially since Barkley represents so much of what Giants football is about. However, when looking at the future of the team and the moves that need to be made to become a true competitor in the NFC, it's tough to imagine that Barkley will be signing a lengthy contract extension with the G-Men this offseason.