By Michael Stewart@TheTruthNYG
The Deadline
What many Giant fans feared has come true as Saquan Barkley and the Giants could not come to an agreement on a new deal. According to many sources, the Giants GM Joe Schoen and Saquan Barkley’s agent were only $2M apart. The Giants and Barkley have two scenarios’ that could play out; Barkley either plays on the franchise tag or he sits out the 2023. What about a trade? Well, apparently the Giants want Barkley to be a Giant and Barkley wants to be a Giant, so I expect Barkley will play under the Tag this season as it would be foolish for him as his age to sit out the season.
What to expect from Barkley in 2023?
Like many Giant fans and the Giants organization, the expectation will be that Barkley has another stellar season like he did in 2022. There will some obstacles that will hinder Barkley early and throughout the season to achieve this with the first being in game shape once the season starts. Barkley has already hinted that he is willing to sit out training camp and the pre-season and if so, I would think he would need at least three games to be in elite game shape. Another factor and this is a biggie, Barkley has had a history with the injury bug and he must avoid this scenario in 2023 at all cost if he plans on getting a multi-year deal starting in 2024. So I believe if Barkley can rush for over 1,000 yards/gain 500 yards in receiving and tally up double digits in touchdowns, his 2023 season would be considered a success.
Can the Giants improve from last season with or without Barkley?
Barkley was a major factor in the Giants success in 2022 and with the uncertainty and unproven talent of the rest of the Giants backfield; it’s hard to imagine this team being better than a 10 win team from last season without Barkley playing his best. With that being said, one player shouldn’t define a team and/or determine the teams overall win total. The Giants have improved in other areas, especially on the defensive side of the ball at all three levels. Also, the additions of weapons at the Wide Receiver/Tight End positions should help both Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley.