After going from a four-win team to a Divisional Round playoff appearance after Brian Daboll took over coaching duties, the New York Giants took a major leap forward last season. But this growth came at a cost, with Daniel Jones flashing enough talent to receive a four-year $160 million contract extension.
Pro Bowl running back Saquon Barkley’s contract also expired, causing the Giants to place the franchise tag on their former No. 2 overall pick. The Giants would still like to work out a long-term agreement with their star tailback, but they also have another franchise cornerstone to worry about this offseason.
After reaching the Pro Bowl and being named a second-team All-Pro member, defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is entering the final year of his rookie contract. As Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reports, Lawrence is not expected to attend the team’s voluntary offseason program, which begins on Monday, due to his unresolved contract situation.
Yet, Lawrence isn’t the only star Giants player opting out of the offseason program so far. Barkley also won’t be in attendance, as he, too, is seeking a long-term extension and has yet to sign his franchise tag.
Ultimately, it’s far too soon to worry about these matters. Players skipping voluntary workouts is nothing new, contract disputes or not. They’re simply looking to avoid any chance of injury while still trying to lock in a more lucrative contract that sets them up for multiple years to come. This development likely won’t catch anyone with the Giants by surprise.