Saquon Barkley’s desired contract revealed

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is set to become a free agent. Here’s how much he’s reportedly looking for on a new contract.

The New York Giants shocked the NFL world by winning nine games in the 2022 season, making it to the playoffs, and defeating the Minnesota Vikings in the Wild Card Round. However, they are now in offseason mode following their elimination by the Philadelphia Eagles in the Divisional Round. They have to big players set to hit free agency — quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley.

While meeting with the media at the end of their season, Barkley expressed his desire to remain with the Giants, noting that he didn’t want to reset the market for running backs. So, what exactly is he looking for on a new contract?

According to FOX Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano, the Giants had offered Barkley a deal during their bye week that would have paid him $12 million per season. Vacchiano said that he’s heard that Barkley is looking to make around the $16 million average that Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers makes.

What Saquon Barkley is looking for in his new contract

As of this writing, McCaffrey currently leads all running backs in terms of average salary with $16 million, per Spotrac. Ranking second are Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints and Ezekiel Elliott of the Dallas Cowboys with $15 million.

Here’s what Barkley said specifically about not wanting to reset the market. He cites the two seasons in which he missed time due to injuries. The video footage comes courtesy of SNY.

Another interesting comment Barkley made was when he was asked by the New York Post about potentially being given a franchise tag. For running backs, it would be worth $12.1 million in 2023. Barkley responded with, “I think it would upset anybody.”

Barkley is coming off of his most impressive season since his rookie campaign. With better protection at the line of scrimmage, and the offensive scheme set up by head coach Brian Daboll and coordinator Mike Kafka, the 2018 second-overall pick thrived.

In 16 games played, Barkley ran for 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns on 295 carries, while catching 57-of-76 targets for 338 yards.

The Giants have important decisions to make. While Barkley is reportedly seeking a new deal, so is Jones, who could get paid rather handsomely considering how well he played throughout the 2022 season. That, and since he’s a quarterback, the price is going to be high.

Will the Giants and Barkley be able to agree to terms on a new contract? Or will the team resort to using the franchise tag. That will be a story to follow leading up to the March 7 tag deadline.