EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley has decided to skip a voluntary exit meeting with the team. Barkley, entering another offseason without long-term security, has expressed his indifference towards the franchise tag.
Barkley, who missed most of the 2021 season due to injury, shared his frustration about the franchise tag, stating, “Just get it over with.” The 2018 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is currently in the final year of his rookie contract and is eligible for a franchise tag designation.
This decision comes amidst discussions about potential contracts for star running backs in the league. The model contracts include those of Derrick Henry, Jonathan Taylor, and Christian McCaffrey. Barkley’s future with the Giants remains uncertain, as the team weighs their options and negotiations continue.
The voluntary exit meetings are typically an opportunity for players and management to assess the previous season and discuss plans for the offseason. However, Barkley’s absence from the meeting raises questions about his dissatisfaction with the current state of negotiations.
The Giants drafted Barkley with the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, hoping he would become a cornerstone of their franchise. However, injuries have plagued Barkley in recent seasons, limiting his playing time and casting doubts on his long-term durability.
As the Giants and Barkley navigate contract negotiations, both the player and the team face important decisions that will shape their future. For Barkley, the franchise tag hangs over his head, potentially limiting his autonomy in choosing his next team. On the other hand, the Giants must weigh the financial investment in a player with injury concerns against their long-term goals.
It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold, but one thing is certain: Barkley’s absence from the voluntary exit meeting is a clear signal of his discontentment and urgency for a resolution. The Giants now face the challenge of addressing Barkley’s concerns and finding a solution that satisfies both parties.
In conclusion, Saquon Barkley has chosen to skip a voluntary exit meeting with the New York Giants as he grapples with the uncertainty of a potential franchise tag. The star running back’s future with the team hangs in the balance as negotiations continue. Furthermore, Barkley’s absence from the meeting underscores his desire for a resolution and highlights the challenges faced by both him and the Giants in finding common ground. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for Barkley’s career and the future direction of the Giants’ franchise.