Giants' Barkley to Miss Start of Offseason Program; Won't Sign Franchise Tag
Analysis 4/12/23
The New York Giants' offseason program begins April 17, and there will be a familiar face absent. Running back Saquon Barkley does not plan to sign his franchise tag, making him unable to attend the program, ESPN reported on Wednesday.
The Giants used the franchise tag on Barkley this offseason after the two sides could not agree on a contract extension. If they can't agree to a long-term deal before July 15, the 2022 Pro Bowl running back will earn approximately $10.1 million on the tag.
Barkley had a resurgent 2022 season under new coach Brian Daboll. The former No. 2 overall pick ran for a career-high 1,312 yards, scored 10 touchdowns and had 54 catches for 338 yards. Most importantly, Barkley remained healthy and played in 16 games for the first time since his rookie season in 2018.
Barkley helped New York to its first winning season (9-7-1) and first playoff berth since 2016. Quarterback Daniel Jones also enjoyed a strong season. However, the Giants rewarded Jones with a four-year, $160 million contract.
The Giants upgraded their skill position talent this offseason, hoping to surround Jones and Barkley with better playmakers. The team traded for tight end Darren Waller, signed wide receiver Parris Campbell and brought back its top receiver from last season, Darius Slayton.
Barkley and the Giants still have plenty of time to negotiate a long-term deal, but it appears Barkley is taking a firm stance against playing on the franchise tag in 2023.
Another player who will not report Monday because of a contract situation is Dexter Lawrence, the New York Daily News reported.
Lawrence, a former first-round pick, will enter the fifth and final year of his rookie contract.