Suggested Saquon Barkley trade proposal is unwise for Buccaneers
Speculation over Saquon Barkley's future continues to grow as the Giants running back remains away from the team over contract disputes. The two-time Pro Bowler plans to decline New York's franchise tag in hopes to secure a long-term deal before the July 17 deadline.
There are options in the mix, including one that lands the 26-year-old in Tampa Bay.
Bleacher Report suggests the Buccaneers "impact the playoff race" by trading veteran receiver Mike Evans for Barkley and a 2024 second-round pick. Tampa Bay finished dead last in rushing yards last season and would recoup $14.5M by trading Evans, who's entering his last season under contract.
There's no doubt Barkley would have an instant impact in the struggling backfield, and an extra pick is always nice, but it's still not a wise move for Tampa Bay.
Barkley is a definite star, but the reality is that running backs simply aren't worth investing in. Ask the Jets about Le'Veon Bell.
Yes, Barkley won Offensive Rookie of the Year and has racked up 4,000+ yards, but his short career has already been riddled with injuries — including a season-ending ACL tear in 2020.
On the other hand, Evans has been a model for consistency and durability for nearly a decade. The Hall of Fame-worthy receiver holds an NFL record with nine straight 1,000-yard seasons. He'll be 30 years old when the season starts, but his production doesn't seem to be slowing down.
The Bucs need to fix the ground game, but they can do it without breaking the bank.
Tampa Bay RBs Rachaad White, Chase Edmonds and Ke'Shawn Vaughn aren't comparable to Barkley, but it's not always about how talented the backs are, rather how much room you give them to run through.
The Barkley money could go toward beefing up the offensive line to complement Ryan Jensen and Tristan Wirfs. It may not be as fun as acquiring a superstar, but it's just as, if not more, necessary.
And if the Bucs still aren't convinced it's not the right move, just know that Tampa Bay fans won't be happy. They're already losing it on Twitter over the thought of Evans in a different uniform.
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