Matt Bowen of ESPN released his list of the “top 50 available players” this week and two members of the New York Giants made the cut.
The first is obvious and will appear on all top free-agent lists.
8. Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
Age entering 2023 season: 26
I consider Barkley a top-three running back. He has regained his explosiveness and suddenness after injuries limited him to 15 total games over the previous two seasons. He’s a difference-maker with big-play juice in both the run and pass game. Barkley had 32 rushes of 10 or more yards this season — sixth most in the league — and finished with 1,650 yards from scrimmage and 10 touchdowns. He’s another candidate for the franchise tag if New York can’t work out a deal with him.
The second Giant is a little less obvious. And his position on the list is also likely to come as somewhat of a surprise.
10. Daniel Jones, QB, New York Giants
Age entering 2023 season: 26
Jones should be viewed as a midtier starter, with the mobility to produce as a runner on designed carries or scramble attempts. This season, his 60.8 QBR ranked seventh in the NFL, and we saw his throwing volume increase over the second half of the season. A quarterback who can play tall in the pocket — and operate in the dropback passing game — Jones’ dual-threat ability (708 rushing yards) fits best with Brian Daboll’s system in New York. The Giants have big decisions to make about Jones and Saquon Barkley, but general manager Joe Schoen said recently the team plans to bring back Jones.
The fact that Jones is now considered a top-10 free agent speaks volumes about his sudden and rapid ascension. He’s in line for a big payday.
Several former Giants also made Bowen’s list, including quarterback Geno Smith, cornerback James Bradberry, wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., tight end Evan Engram, and defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson.
