Those associated with the New York Giants will be feeling a bit nervous in the run-up to the 2023 regular season with it still uncertain as to whether star running back Saquon Barkley will be awarded a long-term deal.
The franchise has until 4 p.m. ET on Monday to strike a deal, but if this cannot be achieved, Barkley is not eligible to be re-signed until the 2023 season comes to a close.
According to NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo, Barkley, who had the franchise tag applied in March, is not looking for a market-setting deal, but it has been revealed that he has not spoken to the Giants in the days leading up to this past week.
If a deal cannot be made, Barkley will have to decide whether he plays 2023 on the tag and make $10.1m, or sit out. He would not be subject to any fines for missing training camp due to the fact that he has not signed a contract.
While some fans may be panicking about the prospect of Barkley missing a number of regular season games, Garafolo was quick to point out that the deal for quarterback Daniel Jones came together quickly on March 7 ahead of the deadline to tag players, therefore, panic only needs to settle in come Monday afternoon if the stalemate between the Giants and Barkley cannot be broken.