If New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley wants to land himself the biggest contract extension possible down the road, he’s going to need to put up a big 2020 campaign in order to help his cause.
And former Giants running back Brandon Jacobs agrees with that sentiment, as he believes the 2020 season is “very important” for Barkley’s hopes of getting a big deal from the team.
“This year is very important. It’s his third season and he’s getting close to that contract year, and being a running back in that contract year, you’ve got to put up nine million yards in order to get something that’s worth having,” Jacobs explained on MSG 150. “This is one of those years where they can re him up by the end of the year or take him into next year and do it. But he’s definitely close and he definitely needs to have a good season.”
Barkley is entering the third year of his rookie deal, so the Giants still have plenty of time to make a decision on a contract extension.
However, it’s likely the Giants will ink Barkley before he reaches the end of his first contract in order to get the most bang for their buck, much like the Carolina Panthers did with Christian McCaffrey this offseason.
Because of his elite dual-threat ability, Barkley is going to garner a hefty sum of money. It’s quite possible he ends up being the highest-paid back in the NFL when it’s all said and done — or at least, something close to it.
Barkley dealt with a high-ankle sprain during the 2019 season that limited him to 13 games, but his production was still impressive nonetheless, and that’s especially true considering some of the Giants’ offensive woes.
The former No. 2 overall pick posted 1,441 yards (1,003 rushing) and eight total touchdowns one season after putting up over 2,000 yards in his rookie campaign.
At this point, it’s clear only injuries can stop a generational talent like Barkley, who is one of the best in the business at his position.
His importance to the Giants’ offense — and Daniel Jones’ development — can’t be understated, which is why he will eventually secure his bag.
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