As the New York Giants deal with Saquon Barkley contract drama, the Dallas Cowboys have to love what they see.
Giants running back Saquon Barkley isn't thrilled with the franchise tag. In fact, there's no guarantee he'll play on it, as the Penn State product seeks a long-term commitment from the organization. As a running back, he may not receive one.
New York plays the Dallas Cowboys Week 1, and while most around the league would expect Barkley to suit up in that game, shiny new deal or not, he has other plans.
Unlike most positions, running back isn't one that requires much preseason work with the team. Barkley has been with the Giants for years, so even should he sign a new contract and end a theoretical holdout just prior to the start of the regular season, he's still good for some reps. Nonetheless, this has to be concerning for New York football fans. A win against the Cowboys early in the season would do wonders for their hopes of winning the division, or securing another Wild Card berth down the line.
Giants: Will Saquon Barkley play against the Cowboys?
Per Braulio Perez of G-Men HQ, New York's latest offer is a decent one, but comes with a caveat as it pertains to the guaranteed money involved.
"This contract drama has been present for months now, as Schoen and Barkley's reps can't seem to meet in the middle. The latest word is that the Giants could end up putting $13-14 million a year on the table with incentives. However, it's unknown how much guaranteed money is being presented."
Facing New York without Barkley would obviously give Dallas a monumental edge, which puts the ball squarely in the court of the Giants front office. After signing Daniel Jones long-term this offseason, the time to win is now, especially after what Brian Daboll and Co. proved last season.
Barkley is 26 years old, and already has plenty of wear on his tires. Signing a running back to a long-term deal always comes with some risk. Look no further than Ezekiel Elliott. While Barkley isn't most backs, it's not surprising New York is averse to a multiyear commitment at this time.
We'll see if it costs them come Week 1.