Saquon Barkley found himself in the middle of a huge debacle concerning his contract issues with the New York Giants. His team offered him a franchise tag while he was expecting to sign a more solid and long-term contract with the Giants. And this mismatch between reality and expectation seems to be creating an uproar in the sporting world.
So, let’s find out more about the story and how RB like Barkley is suffering from the NFL cap policy.
Saquon Barkley contract impasse worries Giant fans
The professional footballer entered the NFL dominion holding the hands of the New York Giants in the 2018 NFL draft. The NFL team offered him a four-year $31,194,751 deal which comes along with an annual salary of $10,091,000.
Upon the maturity of his rookie contract, the footballer was expecting a valuable deal from the team. Saquon believed that his team would definitely give him the respect he deserves after elevating its rank to a higher peck with his ravishing last season. He scored more than 1300 yards and 10 touchdowns which is his highest career achievement till now.
However, sprinkling water on his expectations, the Giants leveled him with a franchise tag accompanied by a one-year deal of nearly $10 million. And this is where the Pro Bowl expressed his disappointment and dissatisfaction.
This week the New Giants are going to cut the ribbon of their compulsory minicamp where players have to show up. But over the contract disagreement, Saquon said he will not be attending the activities until the issue is resolved.
The team and the young player have time till July 17 to seat on the table together and settle their negotiation issues. NFL fans are concerned that if the deal doesn’t happen, Barkley might consider sitting out for the season.
Giants’ franchise RB Saquon Barkley confirmed after the Saquon Barkley Youth Football Camp in Jersey City, NJ today that he will not be at his team’s mandatory minicamp this week. Barkley still has not signed his franchise tender.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 12, 2023
His words: pic.twitter.com/O8nFQujZG0
NFL salary cap making running backs suffer along with high influx in the position
Over the years, NFL experienced a sharp decline in RB’s role over the quarterbacks or others. Moreover, the league seems more focused on establishing a passing game where the running backs are portrayed to be less valuable.
Besides, this position has a short life span compared to others and the salary cap is much lower when compared with other high profile positions. Increased numbers of aspirants for running back positions might be another reason why NFL is putting less money in their pockets.
Well, whatever the actual issue may be, Saquon has spoken up over the issue and is looking forward to getting a satisfactory offer from the team.
