Xavier McKinney on Free Agency, "I Should Be Paid Like a Top-5 Guy"
The New York Giants are in the same situation as the other 31 NFL teams. They will need to make some tough decisions on who they keep and who they let walk in free agency. One such player is safety standout Xavier McKinney.
McKinney joined Pat Leonard on Talkin' Ball Podcast to discuss free agency, and where he believes his contract should be placed among the other safeties in the league.
"I always felt the love with the Giants. As far as the organization, it's been a great organization for me. Obviously, they were the team that drafted me...I've been in love with them ever since. They have always showed me love. They have always been there for me, even when I went through my ups and my downs. I'm one of those that likes staying on the same team in my career."
via Xavier McKinney, Talkin Ball
Despite the Giants not giving McKinney a long-term deal yet, they still have time to do so. They might also choose to franchise tag McKinney, though the idea is that would land on RB Saquon Barkley.
McKinney might be out of the price range that the Giants can afford, making his franchise tag and multi-year deal something that GM Joe Schoen does not want to explore.
"I've already said how I feel about being paid a certain way. I do believe I should be paid as a top-5 guy because I am that. I believe that, and the numbers speak for that. Also, there are other factors that play a role into ultimately what I want to do. It's kind of a mix of both. At the end of the day, I do really love the idea of playing and being with the same team my entire career."
via Xavier McKinney, Talkin Ball
McKinney continues not to shut the door on a reunion with the Giants, as they explore options. Schoen has reportedly met with McKinney's representatives and the team has stated they want him back, but the money has got to be right.
James Brizuela has been a professional writer since 2019. After covering entertainment and the NFL for Sportskeeda, he now works as an Assignment Desk Editor for the LA Sports Report Network which has partnered with the Sports Illustrated FanNation Network, focusing on his expertise in LA sports at the college and professional level.