Giants, Saquon Barkley are ‘not close on a deal’

The New York Giants and RB Saquon Barkley are reportedly “not close” on a new long-term deal and he may be headed for free agency.

The New York Giants and running back Saquon Barkley attempted to negotiate a long-term extension during the team’s Week 9 bye but were unable to come to an agreement.

The two sides were said to be far apart on the numbers but vowed to reconvene during the offseason.

However, as the new league year rapidly approaches, the Giants and Barkley are still dealing with a significant “gap” in negotiations. In fact, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports, they aren’t even close on a new deal.

“In some limbo,” Rapoport said of Barkley from the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. “The two sides, from my understanding, are not close on a deal. Obviously, the Giants would love to bring him back.”

There have been reports that Barkley is seeking a deal of $16 million per year, which is similar to the contract signed by Christian McCaffrey in 2020. It would put him at the top of the market but not reset it — something Barkley previously said he is not trying to do.

The Giants and general manager Joe Schoen have stated publicly they’d like to have Barkley back but only at the right price. And that price is reportedly in the $12 million range.

The Giants are also open to placing the franchise tag on Barkley, but only if they are able to come to a long-term agreement with quarterback Daniel Jones. If not, they intend to franchise him which paves the way for Barkley to hit the free agent market.

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