The New York Giants took a significant step toward free agency as star running back Saquon Barkley moved closer to testing the market. They opted against using the franchise tag on the former second-overall pick from the 2018 NFL draft.
Last season, the Giants utilized the franchise tag on Barkley, ultimately securing a one-year, $10.1 million contract before the start of training camp. Declining to employ the franchise tag this year would have entailed a $12.2 million cost if Barkley had accepted the offer.
With the 27-year-old Barkley seeking a multi-year deal, the Giants have until Wednesday, coinciding with the onset of free agency, to negotiate terms.
In the previous season, Barkley appeared in 14 games, sidelined for three due to a high ankle sprain. He recorded 962 rushing yards and six touchdowns along with 41 receptions, including four touchdowns.
Since joining the Giants, Barkley has amassed 5,211 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns. Additionally, the Penn State alum has accumulated 288 receptions for 2,100 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Barkley’s 2020 season was marred by a torn ACL in the second week, causing him to miss most of the campaign. Although he faced challenges in 2021, Barkley rebounded the following year, tallying 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, aiding the Giants’ return to the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
Furthermore, the Giants refrained from employing the franchise tag on safety Xavier McKinney, allowing him to negotiate a new contract. The 24-year-old, a pivotal contributor on defense, emerged as the Giants’ second-leading tackler last season, featuring in every defensive snap.
A franchise tag for safety carried a $13.8 million tender offer for a one-year deal.
