Saquon Barkley achieved virtually the whole lot he needed to in 2022.
He proved that he’s nonetheless some of the explosive playmakers within the NFL, overcoming an onslaught of accidents lately to publish a career-high 1,312 rushing yards with 10 touchdowns to assist lead the Giants to their first playoff berth in six years and first postseason win in 11 earlier than bowing out within the Divisional Spherical towards the Philadelphia Eagles in a 38-7 drubbing on Saturday evening.
“The way the year ended sucks,” Barkley stated on Sunday. “We didn’t exit how we’d’ve favored to have gone out, however there was numerous good that occurred this 12 months you could enhance on and build. It was enjoyable. One thing I at all times needed to do.
“I always wanted to play in the playoffs, compete for a championship. Obviously the first couple years it didn’t happen but I believe we’ll get to the spot at some point. I want to be part of it. I’ve been vocal about that.”
That’s continued music to Giants followers’ ears because the 25-year-old working again begins his offseason as a free agent the place he’ll be one of many extra high-profile skills accessible.
However like his quarterback, Daniel Jones, Barkley proved that he’s worthy of being thought of as a foundational cornerstone of a Giants group that was effectively forward of schedule in 2023 — successful 9 video games within the common season earlier than defeating the Minnesota Vikings within the Wild Card Spherical.
With it comes the alignment for a good-looking payday — even doubtlessly setting a brand new document for a deal given to a working again regardless of enjoying 60 of a potential 82 video games since his NFL debut in 2018.
“I’m not really too concerned about resetting any markets,” Barkley stated. “I’m practical. I do know what I used to be on tempo to do however having two years crammed up with accidents and having a season of not performing to the extent that I can carry out [2021] doesn’t assist.
“I think I was able to show the type of player that I am and the things I’m able to do on the football field. That was something I wanted to do, that was my goal this year and I was able to accomplish that. Now it’s just sit down with my agent and see what happens.”
The negotiations with Barkley’s illustration and Giants normal supervisor Joe Schoen will be the continuation of talks that started in the course of the group’s bye week in Week 9 however have been placed on the again burner for the second half of the season
“We would’ve loved to have gotten the deal done during the bye week,” Barkley stated. “Obviously, it wasn’t able to get done but it’s fine… I couldn’t imagine that being the last time being in a Giants uniform but that’s just the nature of the business. I can’t control any of that. It comes with it. I’ve been vocal with how I feel and I’m excited for the future.”