The New York Giants and Saquon Barkley failed to agree on a contract extension, and if the superstar running back is going to play during the 2023 season, he’ll have to play in the franchise’s bid.
The lack of a new deal for Barkley surprised Giants fans and other NFL watchers. According to the New York Postthe Giants’ final offer was for three years and around $11-11.5 million per year with guarantees of around $22-23 million.
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The numbers were reportedly within $1-2 million on both ends of the broker’s asking price.
“It is what it is,” Barkley wrote on Twitter Monday as the deadline for a long-term deal passed.
Barkley was unhappy about being tagged from the get-go. New York tagged Barkley and later reached a long-term deal with quarterback Daniel Jones.
The running back had his best year yet in 2022. It marked the first time he had played at least 16 games in a season since his rookie year. He rushed for 1,312 yards with 10 touchdowns. He also had 57 receptions for 338 yards. He was a Pro Bowler for the second time in his career.
NFL RUNNERS RING AFTER SAQUON BARKLEY, JOSH JACOBS FAIL TO REACH LONG-TERM DEALS: ‘A GUY OF TRASH’
He spoke of the negotiations in June.
“As I said before, I’m not looking to set any contract records. I’m not demanding to be the highest paid player at my position,” Barkley told ESPN.
“I understand the market. My goal is to be respectfully compensated based on my contributions to the team on the field and in the locker room. I’ve been in talks with the Giants this offseason. If there’s ever a deal that’s fair to both sides of the table, I’ll be ready to sign.”
If he signs the tag, Barkley will earn $10.1 million and be among the highest-paid running backs.
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Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers ($16 million), Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints ($15 million), Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans ($12.5 million) and Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns ($12.5 million) are the highest earning brokers among brokers.
Associated Press contributed to this report.