The franchise tag window has started for all 32 franchises. Each team can tag only one player for one year. As the New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley enters free agency, will the team tag him once more?

It is no secret that Barkley wants to stay with the Giants. The 27-year-old has declared his desire to play with the Giants throughout his pro career. But will the Giants’ management also show the same loyalty?

A year later and dollars short for Saquon Barkley

Barkley was drafted by the Giants as their first pick in the 2018 NFL Draft in round 1. Since his rookie season, the RB remained inconsistent due to injuries. However, the 2X pro Bowler had a career-high 2022 season. And the Giants wanted more!

Though both parties could not come to a deal last year and hence the Giants used their tag on Barkley. Expectations were that he might receive a hefty contract this time around.

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However, the latest reports suggest that the Giants are willing to hedge their bets on not re-signing the RB. And with the mandated bump of 20% salary from last year, the Giants seem unlikely to tag him. So where could Barkley head next?

Testing the free agency market

The Running backs, despite being the focal points of attacks and rushes, have very short shelf life in the NFL. Hence, many of the top teams tend to shy away from aging RBs. Even though Barkley is only 27, it would be tough for him to land a deal for a number of years.

But he can make the most of it, through free agency. Despite the slump of form in 2023, Barkley is expected to receive a premium deal upon signing. Top teams like the Baltimore Ravens and the Green Bay Packers are in the market for an exceptional RB. And Barkley might fulfill their needs for a couple of seasons.

Do you think Saquon Barkley will test free agency or be franchise-tagged by the Giants? Let us know in the comments.

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