New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley remains away from the team as their contract stalemate continues. However, the two-time Pro Bowler is still readying himself for the season ahead and was recently spotted training in a Giants helmet.
Is there any significance to that? Probably not, but it was something Giants fans were still happy to see.
New Instagram post from Saquon Barkley today.
Good sign that he is wearing his Giants helmet?#TommysTakes #NYGiants pic.twitter.com/TmCfCjtE5e
— Tommy (@TommyG105) June 8, 2023
Update on Saquon Barkley. He looks very healthy and to be in peak shape. If there were any concerns about this man they should stop. Giants may have waken up a beast.. I feel a breakout season coming. Remember stay of on side! He absolutely deserve a contact with The Giants. RB1. pic.twitter.com/iblvGEiSOh
— Melo a Top 4 Scorer All-Time (@realmaceblack) June 8, 2023
Perhaps more encouraging than Barkley wearing a Giants helmet were the replies from his teammates. Safety Xavier McKinney, tight end Daniel Bellinger and wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins were among those who sent their support.
“Can’t wait to have you back my guy. We waiting patiently,” McKinney wrote.
Unfortunately for Barkley, his quest for a large contract took another hit this week as the Minnesota Vikings released Dalvin Cook, who was set to earn a $10.4 million base salary in 2023.
While Barkley is more talented than Cook, the gap between the two isn’t as significant as some would like to believe. And Cook’s release once again proves that the running back position is being devalued in the NFL and it’s nearly universal among all 32 teams.
The Giants had reportedly offered Barkley a deal of up to $14 million per season, which is well above current market value. It’s unclear why Barkley’s camp rejected that offer but it was likely due to guaranteed money. They continue to insist they are not looking to reset the market and aren’t firm on their initial $16 million ask.
General manager Joe Schoen is content with allowing Barkley to play out the season on a $10.1 million franchise tender if they can’t get a deal done.
