Giants' Saquon Barkley: I Want Contract That's 'Fair' and 'Makes Sense' in NFL FA

Saquon Barkley is headed for free agency again this offseason after playing the 2023 campaign on a one-year, $11 million deal, and the New York Giants running back is just hoping to receive a fair deal ahead of the 2024 season.

"I just want something that's fair and that makes sense. That's really it," Barkley told reporters Wednesday. "I think I was open and honest about that last year. I still stick by that but like I said, I get it's a business and if it's not here, hopefully it's some other place."

The Giants initially placed the $10.1 million franchise tag on Barkley for 2023 before the two sides agreed to a one-year, $11 million deal.

Since putting pen to paper on the contract, Barkley has reiterated multiple times that he hopes to spend his entire career with the Giants, which selected him second overall in the 2018 draft out of Penn State.

"I want to create a legacy, and the way you do that is by continuing to stay with a team through your whole career," Barkley told reporters in October. "As I see the NFL and realize the business, you know, it's less likely for that to happen for players. But if you're able to accomplish that, it's special."

Barkley has played a major role in the New York offense since making his debut in 2018, winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award and earning two Pro Bowl selections in his first five seasons.

However, injuries derailed his career in 2020 and 2021 before he rebounded in 2022 with a Giants squad that reached the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 campaign. He rushed for 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns in 16 games, in addition to catching 57 passes for 338 yards.

Barkley has put together a solid 2023 season despite dealing with an ankle injury, rushing for 916 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games, in addition to catching 39 passes for 229 yards and four scores.

Despite Barkley's best efforts, the Giants are 5-11 and have already been eliminated from playoff contention.

While it's clear Barkley is a big part of the New York offense, it's unclear what the Giants' intentions are for their star player in terms of a contract in a depreciated running back market.

Barkley can be franchise-tagged again in 2024 for $12.109 million, though it's clear he's looking to avoid a repeat of 2023.