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In a development that could have significant implications for the New York Giants‘ upcoming season, star running back Saquon Barkley’s availability for Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys is now in serious doubt.
According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini, Contract negotiations between Barkley and the Giants have reached a stalemate, and the running back finds the franchise tag placed on him earlier this offseason to be undesirable.
As we near the deadline for the Giants and Saquon Barkley to strike a long-term deal, I’m told the two sides remain at a stalemate. The deadline to strike a long-term deal is Monday 4pm.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) July 12, 2023
As the deadline for a long-term deal looms, both parties have failed to bridge the gap in their negotiations.
Russini reports that the Giants and Barkley remain deadlocked, increasing the likelihood that the standoff will spill over into the regular season. The deadline for a long-term deal is Monday at 4 p.m., adding urgency to the situation.
Barkley’s displeasure with the franchise tag stems from his desire for both a more lucrative contract and long-term security.
While the tag would guarantee him $10.09 million for the 2023 season, Barkley, as one of the NFL’s premier running backs, seeks a more substantial agreement that reflects his value and contribution to the team.
Saquon Barkley has made it clear the franchise tag is undesirable. I’m told his availability for Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys will be in serious question if he does not get a long-term deal from the Giants.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) July 12, 2023
Saquon Barkley may find himself in a difficult position in this battle. The running back position has experienced a devaluation in recent years, diminishing Barkley’s leverage.
The Giants could potentially wait him out, hoping that he either relents and plays under the franchise tag or that his value decreases to a point where no NFL team would offer him the contract he desires.
This turn of events presents a challenging and disheartening reality for Barkley, who undoubtedly aspires to secure his long-term future with the Giants.
The team’s steadfastness in their contract negotiations could have lasting repercussions, affecting both Barkley’s performance on the field and the Giants’ offensive capabilities heading into the new season.