In the recent offseason, the future between Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants appeared uncertain. The Giants have chosen not to extend their association with the seasoned running back for the upcoming season, despite ultimately retaining him last season.
Following talks with multiple teams, the vet running back found himself without a definitive landing spot for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, seizing the opportunity, the Philadelphia Eagles, rivals of the Giants, have opted to enhance their offensive arsenal with Barkley’s skill set.
Saquon Barkley set to join Eagles
Saquon Barkley opted for a divisional switch, signing a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. The contract may amount to as much as $46.75 million and includes a signing bonus with $26 million fully guaranteed. The choice to depart from the New York Giants came after Barkley and the team failed to see eye-to-eye on a new contract.
Meanwhile, his decision to switch sides didn’t come without its share of criticism. Former Giants running back Tiki Barber also joined the agitated fans. He didn’t hold back his feelings on “Evan and Tiki” radio, “You’re dead to us, Saquon. Good luck, you’re dead to me.”
The 27-year-old swiftly responded on social media, defending his decision and emphasizing the financial aspects of the deal.
“Lol yup, you’re the prime example of loyalty to a team… if fans are gonna hate me for [securing more guaranteed money], so be it! But I never turned my back on my teammates,” he posted, addressing the criticism.
While Barkley initially expressed a desire to stay with the Giants, the realities of the football business led him to prioritize securing a favorable deal. The Giants’ decision not to use the franchise tag on Barkley paved the way for his exploration of free agency. Negotiations persisted into the offseason, but the inability to reach an agreement ultimately steered Barkley toward joining the rival Eagles.
How much did Saquon Barkley earn at the Giants?
Saquon Barkley’s tenure with the New York Giants has come to an end as he heads to the Philadelphia Eagles. Throughout his time with the Giants, Barkley earned a whopping $41,285,751 from the team.
His journey with the Giants began in 2018 when he signed a lucrative 4-year, $31,194,751 contract, which included a hefty $20,767,092 signing bonus. This deal ensured Barkley $31,194,751 in guaranteed money, with an average annual salary of $7,798,688.
Following the conclusion of the 2022 season, Barkley inked another deal with the Giants, this time a one-year contract worth $10,091,000. This contract included a $2,000,000 signing bonus, with $10,091,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $10,091,000.
Presently, he commands a peak annual salary of $15.833 million on average, making it the second highest in NFL history for a running back as an Eagles player.
What’s your take on his sudden move to the rival team?
