Heading into the offseason, the New York Giants seemingly had two clear priorities regarding contracts. The first was obviously addressing Daniel Jones’ then-pending free agency, and the second was finding a way to get Saquon Barkley under contract for 2023 too.
Jones got paid, via a four-year, $160 million contract. But Barkley received the franchise tag, valued at $10.09 million, yet he hasn’t signed on the dotted line.
Barkley wants a long-term extension, but the Giants haven’t been able to agree on contract value with their two-time Pro Bowl running back just yet.
The 26-year-old was willing to chime in on his ongoing contract dispute on Tuesday after hosting his Saquon Barkley Youth Football Camp in New Jersey.
“As I have previously stated, I’m not looking to set any contract records. I’m not demanding to be the highest-paid player at my position. I understand the market. My goal is just to be compensated respectfully based on my contributions to the team on the field and in the locker room. I’ve been in talks with the Giants throughout the offseason. If at some point there’s a deal that is fair to both sides on the table, I’ll be ready to sign.”
Saquon Barkley discusses contract dispute
- Saquon Barkley stats last season: 295 carries, 1,312 rushing yards, 10 TD, 57 receptions, 338 receiving yards
As the Giants prepare for their mandatory minicamp, set to run from June 13-15, Barkley informed the public that he would not be in attendance, leaving the offense without their 1,300-yard back.
The Giants also have Matt Breida, Gary Brightwell, fifth-round rookie Eric Gray, and Jashaun Corbin on the roster.
Christian McCaffrey is the NFL’s highest-paid running back, earning an average of $16 million per season. But as Barkley said, he’s not looking to set any records or become the highest-paid at his position.
Yet he also hints at some disrespect, by making two comments, about wanting to be “compensated respectfully” and mentioning “if at some point there’s a deal that is fair,” he’ll agree to a long-term agreement. We’ll see if sitting out of minicamp, or at this point, threatening to, moves the needle for either side.
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