Saquon Barkley willing to take drastic step amid contract stalemate with Giants?

Additionally, Russini suggested that Barkley could leave the franchise tag unsigned and remain away from the Giants through at least their regular-season opener versus the division-rival Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 10: 

Barkley indicated last month he could sit out regular-season games if he stayed on track to play on the $10.091M franchise tender for 2023. However, in-the-know individuals such as Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio and CBS Sports’ Joel Corry repeatedly have made it known this summer they believe the 26-year-old is bluffing and “just posturing” amid negotiations. 

Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce is among those who advised Barkley to play on the tag, if necessary, to avoid forfeiting any guaranteed cash for the upcoming season. As recently as Tuesday, Fox Sports NFC East reporter Ralph Vacchiano said Barkley will eventually sign the tag because the 2018 first-round draft pick “is a generally good guy and great teammate.” 

Barkley’s camp reportedly rejected a contract earlier this year that could’ve gone as high as $14M per season. It’s unknown how much guaranteed money was attached to that deal, but it’s assumed Barkley is looking for more than $22.22M in total guarantees that would match the prices of the franchise tags for the next two campaigns. 

The Giants used the non-exclusive franchise tag to retain Barkley’s rights for 2023 the same day it was learned they and quarterback Daniel Jones agreed to a four-year contract that could be worth up to $160M with $82M guaranteed. Per ESPN stats, Barkley finished last regular season fourth in the league with 1,312 rushing yards and 295 carries. He scored 10 rushing touchdowns and shared the team lead in receptions with 57.