NFC East rival a landing spot for Giants RB Saquon Barkley?

Could New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley end up in the "Lone Star State?"

Pro Football Focus analyst Brad Spielberger named the Dallas Cowboys as a potential landing spot for the former Pro Bowler, who could enter free agency this offseason. 

"The Dallas Cowboys and owner Jerry Jones are never one to shy away from larger investments at the running back position, and Jones spent the better part of a decade reemphasizing that the offense ran through Ezekiel Elliott," wrote Spielberger. "Dallas in this scenario brings in a legitimate three-down back who can be another pass catcher for Dak Prescott while also capitalizing more often in short-yardage and goal-line situations than Tony Pollard did in 2023."

Although the Giants could franchise tag Barkley for a second consecutive year, he implied he remains uncertain about his future in New York.

"I've mentioned before that I want to be a Giant for life," Barkley recently said, via ESPN's Jordan Raanan. "That was a goal of mine when I got drafted. I wanted to leave a legacy here, but it's out of my control."

If the former No. 2 overall pick hits free agency, signing him would be a costly proposition for Dallas. Spotrac estimates his market value is a three-year deal worth $9.9M annually. 

Re-signing Pollard — who can enter free agency in March — and adding Barkley would be tricky for the Cowboys unless they clear cap room. Per OTC, they're $19.74M over the cap, and they have 16 free agents.

Ditching Pollard would be the wrong decision. This season, he finished with more rushing yards (1,005 yards on 252 carries in 17 games) than Barkley (962 yards on 247 carries in 14 games).

But the Cowboys must improve their ground attack, which ranked 15th in the league in rushing yards (113.2). While adding Barkley is tempting, it appears the team isn't in a position to do it.