Getty Image / Stephen Maturen
The New York Giants have had a decent offseason so far. They were able to extend Daniel Jones and franchise tag Saquon Barkley, keeping them both on the roster.
However, the star running back has until July to sign the franchise tender. Despite that, his latest decision has Giants fans losing their cool.
According to Kim Jones, Barkley is opting not to sign the tag. For that reason, he will be unavailable when the team begins its offseason program.
I’m told Saquon Barkley will not be signing the franchise tag & therefore will not be eligible to participate when the #NYG offseason program begins Monday. More to come on @NewsdaySports.
— Kim Jones (@KimJonesSports) April 12, 2023
As mentioned previously, Barkley has until July to sign the franchise tag. It’s actually pretty normal for players to hold out on signing for as long as possible.
For example, Josh Jacobs, Lamar Jackson, and Evan Engram made the same decision, per Ian Rapoport.
Among franchise tagged players, Tony Pollard has signed his tag. Josh Jacobs, Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley and Evan Engram have not. No signed contract = no offseason program. https://t.co/MEYejTBrzs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 12, 2023
There really is no need to panic just yet. Regardless, some Giants fans are doing just that.
Ok Giants stop playing and pay the man a long term deal
— Brandon Nix (@Its_BNix) April 12, 2023
Some Giants fans are in complete shambles right now.
— John Brennan (@jbrens20) April 12, 2023
The fanbase is basically begging to get Stefon Diggs.
Trade him for Diggs
— Dan C (@danchim25) April 12, 2023
At least one guy gets it.
Good, rest him up for season
— Andone (@Andone82191539) April 12, 2023
Basically.
Giants fans pic.twitter.com/cZeytMoyV3
— FantasyData (@FantasyDataNFL) April 12, 2023
We’ll see how it plays out for New York. Maybe they can reach an agreement to sign Barkley to a long-term deal this summer.
If not, then Giants fans can truly be concerned.