New York Giants Decline Franchise Tag on Saquon Barkley
(East Rutherford) On Tuesday, it was announced that New York Giants would not be placing the franchise tag on Saquon Barkley, meaning that the high-flying running back could indeed explore potential opportunities within the free agent market.
The previous year had seen the Giants attaching the tag to Barkley before they eventually settled on a one-season agreement worth $10.1 million US which was negotiated ahead of the training camp. Had the Giants decided to once again use the tag this year, Barkley would have been in line to earn $12.2 million.
At the age of 27 years, Barkley is now angling for a commitment over several seasons. The parties have until Wednesday, which is incidentally also the day of the market opening, to come to an understanding.
Barkley was active in 14 games in the last season, sitting out three due to an injury in his ankle. He rushed a commendable 962 yards and made six touchdowns while adding another four majors through passing. He managed to catch the ball 41 times.
Ever since his debut with the Giants in the NFL, Barkley has run a total of 5,211 yards to the tune of 35 touchdowns. Furthermore, he has bagged 288 passes for 2,100 yards and 12 more majors.