New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is “unhappy” and doesn’t intend to sign his franchise tender anytime soon but that hasn’t swayed general manager Joe Schoen.
Despite the standoff, Schoen told reporters during his pre-draft press conference on Thursday that nothing has changed and he’s in no rush to get a long-term deal done with his star back.
Schoen says nothing has changed in regard to Saquon Barkley and his contract.
— TheGiantsWire (@TheGiantsWire) April 20, 2023
After pulling his previous offer at the NFL owners’ meeting, Schoen said the two sides have not engaged in any additional negotiations. Furthermore, the general manager says it’s been weeks since he and Barkley personally spoke.
Schoen said “nothing has changed” with Saquon and they haven’t spoken in weeks. Schoen said his plan is to get through the draft and then take a step back. He said there’s “no rush right now” to get anything done.
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) April 20, 2023
Schoen was understandably coy about the entire situation and wouldn’t provide any potential edge to Barkley’s side with a verbal misstep. And when asked specifically about Barkley’s 2023 plans, the general manager said reporters would have to ask the man himself.
Joe Schoen says he doesn't know what Saquon's plans are (re: playing come Week 1).
— TheGiantsWire (@TheGiantsWire) April 20, 2023
Although he seemed a little cold, Schoen did admit that it’s difficult to separate the “human element” from the business side of football. He’s gotten close with many players on the team — Barkley included — and wishes there was no salary cap so that everyone could be paid and be happy.
Ultimately, any sort of resolution between the Giants and Barkley seems a long way off.
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