Saquon Barkley Sees Himself as 'More Than a Running Back'

Saquon Barkley is officially listed as a running back, but the New York Giants rookie views himself as much more than that. 

Prior to making his first appearance at Giants rookie minicamp, Barkley spoke about what his role in the NFL will entail, via ESPN's Jordan Raanan:

"Completely more than a running back. That is why when people try to put, 'Why should a running back go that high?' Obviously, if you look at the past three years and the history of the running back position -- of what Zeke [Ezekiel Elliott] and Le'Veon [Bell]are able to do -- when you look at those guys, they are more than running backs. I view myself as more than a running back."

In three years at Penn State, Barkley turned into one of the most versatile offensive talents in college football. 

The 21-year-old ran for over 1,000 yards in three straight seasons for the Nittany Lions. He finished third on the team with 632 receiving yards, tied for third with three touchdown receptions and tied for second with 54 receptions in 2017. 

Barkley also returned 15 kickoffs for 426 yards and two touchdowns during his junior season. 

The Giants selected Barkley with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft last month. He will be counted on to upgrade an offense that finished 21st in total yards (314.3 per game) and 31st in points per game (15.4).