Giants Rumors: Dexter Lawrence Joins Saquon Barkley Skipping OTAs amid Contract Talks

New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence is joining running back Saquon Barkley as non-participants in the team's voluntary organized team activities this month, according to Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News.

Lawrence, heading into the 2023 season on his fifth-year option, is ostensibly seeking a long-term extension with the Giants.

The 25-year-old is set to make $12.4 million this season before hitting free agency ahead of the 2024 campaign.

Lawrence had a career year in 2022, registering 7.5 sacks, 68 tackles (seven for loss), 28 quarterback hits, two forced fumbles and three passes defended. Every one of those statistics was a career high, resulting in a second-team All-Pro nomination.

"We've had good conversations with the representatives [for Lawrence]," general manager Joe Schoen told reporters in March. "We're in negotiations, and we'll see if we can get something done."

The 2019 first-round pick is a key player for the Giants' talented defense, and he won't be facing any fines for not reporting to team activities this month. The only mandatory portion of the team's offseason program is its minicamp between June 13-15.

Barkley's situation is a little different, as the Giants used the franchise tag to keep him through the 2023 season. That leaves him with three choices: Sign his $10 million franchise tender, come to terms with a long-term extension with the Giants before the July 17 deadline or don't sign the tender and sit out the season.

Until he either signs his tender or agrees on a new deal, the running back is not permitted in the team's training facilities.

Barkley's situation remains in flux, though he'll almost assuredly be back with the Giants next season in some capacity. It seems more likely that Lawrence will get his long-term extension, given his importance to the defense at a key position and his looming free agency.