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Saquon Barkley Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

What it might cost Giants to re-sign pending free-agent RB Saquon Barkley

By Ethan Scott | Last updated 1/24/23

After two consecutive disappointing seasons, Giants running back Saquon Barkley reminded critics this season how dangerous he can be. In 2022, he rushed for 1,312 yards (4.4 yards a carry) and 10 touchdowns -- his best season since his rookie year in 2018.

But is the pending free agent worth a lucrative, long-term deal? Is any running back? Organizations find gems in late rounds for a fraction of what Barkley has been paid with the Giants since 2018.

But Barkley is probably the exception to the rule.

After New York's embarrasing playoff exit against the Eagles, Barkley said he wants to return to New York.

What sort of contract is Saquon Barkley looking for as he hits free agency?

"I'm not looking to reset a market. I'm realistic. Having two years of injuries doesn't help. But I think I was able to show the caliber of player I am." pic.twitter.com/yPPC4iXCM0
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) January 22, 2023

"I don't want to jump to any conclusions. I've been vocal about how I feel and where I want to be. I wanted to show the Giants that they guy they drafted is still here. Everyone knows I would love to be a Giant for life"

- Saquon Barkley on his future with the Giants pic.twitter.com/WIb5SNLahJ
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) January 22, 2023

At the Giants' season-ending news conference, first-year general manager Joe Schoen called Barkley a "good player" and said he's interested in bringing him back:

“Saquon is a good player, a great teammate and someone I liked getting to know and I’d love to have him back. We would love to have Saquon back if it works out.”- Giants GM Joe Schoen on if he wants to re-sign Saquon Barkley. pic.twitter.com/ei6UvPIFdJ
— Doug Rush (@TheDougRush) January 24, 2023

During New York's bye week, Barkley's representation and Schoen met to hammer out a deal. The talks hit a snag, per longtime Giants reporter Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports:

#Giants RB Saquon Barkley turned down a contract extension worth around $12 million a year, per @RalphVacchiano

Barkley recently told the media he's not looking to "reset the market." but the report claims Barkley is looking for Christian Mcaffrey type money. ($16M average) pic.twitter.com/2HFU9lvuQQ
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) January 23, 2023

Barkley doesn't want to reset the market, but he probably won't agree to a hometown discount either.

If the Giants are to keep Barkley around long term, they most likely have to offer a deal in $14M-$16M range annually.

History shows that few teams find major success with running backs after signing them to huge deals. With a roster already slim on talent, New York might not have a choice.

As respected New York Post columnist Ian O'Connor recently wrote: "Saquon Barkley is a very good football player, and the Giants do not have nearly enough of those. In fact, they have three men on the roster with the talent to be the best in the world at what they do. Barkley is one. Dexter Lawrence and Andrew Thomas are the others."

Bottom line: Expect a deal to get done.

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