Giants GM Joe Schoen opens up about regrets over Saquon Barkley's move to Eagles
After six years with the New York Giants, star running back Saquon Barkley departed in free agency. He signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, and that left many people around the Giants' organization upset.
In HBO's Hard Knocks which covered the Giants' offseason, owner John Mara was visibly upset with Barkley's departure. Moreover, general manager Joe Schoen also wasn't pleased to see his star player join a division rival.
Schoen was recently asked by Kay Adams if he has any regrets about how the situation played out and if he would have done anything differently after looking back at it. He said:
"No, I wouldn't... I think both parties tried, this started back in November of 2022. So people forget that. You know, we did go to him before anybody else, that was my first contract extension and the first player that we approached from the Giants for contracts back in 22. ...
"Unfortunately, we were never able to get anything done and we wish Saquon, nothing but the best."
Saquon Barkley deserved the type of deal he got from the Philadelphia Eagles, and he recently revealed that his Giants' tenure was 'over' after the phone call with Schoen. The Giants general manager asked the running back to test the market, which ultimately became the biggest reason why Barkley left New York.
Who will replace Saquon Barkley for the New York Giants?
With Saquon Barkley no longer in New York, the pressure arises on quarterback Daniel Jones to lead the team. Based on the current roster, Devin Singletary will be their primary running back, and the team will require contributions from other skill position players.
The Giants drafted wide receiver Malik Nabers with the sixth overall pick, and expectations are high for him to hit the ground running. Darren Waller also announced his retirement this offseason, and the other two tight ends, Theo Johnson and Daniel Bellinger will be required to do the heavy lifting.
If Daniel Jones doesn't play well this season, then this could be his run with the Giants, as the NFC East franchise will look for a new quarterback in next year's draft.
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