As free agency approaches in March, Giants running back Saquon Barkley said he wouldn’t be opposed to playing for the Chargers.
“I’ve got nothing but respect for Coach Harbaugh,” Barkley said in an interview with Kay Adams. “I’m a big fan of Justin Herbert. I think he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. But, hey, if the opportunity was able to present itself, definitely wouldn’t be against it.”
This comes after Harbaugh’s former teammate Ryan Leaf said on Good Morning Football that Barkley may be a target for Los Angeles when free agency opens up next month.
“Austin Ekeler’s a big part of what it could be with them running the football, but I do think that Saquon Barkley’s going to be at the top of [Harbaugh]’s list, in terms of, what he wants to do with the running back position with him being a free agent,” Leaf said.
Barkley would be an ideal candidate for the Chargers. Adding a running back of his caliber would help the Bolts create some traction on the ground, as Harbaugh is adamant about improving the run game next season.
Barkley amassed 962 rushing yards and six touchdowns last year while adding 280 receiving yards and four scores.
However, it could come down to the financial aspect as Barkley will likely want a pretty hefty contract, and the Chargers don’t have the money to spend, currently projected to be $45 million over the salary cap.
Regardless of whether Barkley is a target or not, look for Los Angeles to address the running back position in free agency to boost the rushing attack.