The Detroit Lions are slated to host the New York Giants for some joint practice sessions in August in advance of the team’s preseason contest at Ford Field. It’s a great opportunity to check out another team, and for Giants fans living in Michigan to get a rare opportunity to see their squad.
Alas, fans hoping to see Giants star running back Saquon Barkley got some disappointing news on Monday. Barkley and the Giants could not agree on a new contract prior to the deadline for players who were given the franchise tag. Now Barkley must either play for the RB franchise tag value or sit out.
Thus far, the 2018 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has indicated he expects do the latter. That means it’s extremely unlikely Barkley makes the trip to Detroit for joint practices or the preseason contest.
After what the Lions defense did to Barkley in their meeting last year, it’s hard to blame him. Barkley carried the ball 15 times but gained just 22 yards in Detroit’s Week 11 win over New York last autumn.
