After agreeing to a long-term deal with Daniel Jones, the New York Giants were apply to place the franchise tag on RB Saquon Barkley. The non-exclusive franchise tag used on Saquon will cost the Giants $10.1M in 2023. Barkley is free to negotiate with other teams, but other teams would need to give the Giants two first round picks and the Giants have the right to match any offer Barkley signs. It’s highly unlikely any team will give Saquon an offer sheet at such a steep price.
The Giants now have until July 15th to work out a long-term deal with Saquon Barkley or he’ll have to play on the tag in 2023.
Saquon Barkley reportedly wanted a contract for $16M per season but Joe Schoen refused to go up to that price. By getting a Daniel Jones deal done, the Giants were able to tag Barkley and keep the pair together.
Saquon Barkley had a really good season in 2022, rushing for 1,312 yards and 10 TDs. He also added 57 receptions and 338 yards. This new Giants regime just isn’t going to spend big on a running back. They felt like Barkley was worth a certain amount, roughly $12.5M, and they weren’t going to budge.
Long-term, this is likely the best thing for the Giants. Paying a running back has proven to be a big mistake in the NFL. The 26 year old RB, will likely find it even harder next season to get a long-term deal.