Saquon Barkley Addresses Decision on Holding Out in First Public Comments

The ongoing saga involving Saquon Barkley’s new contract came to an end—at least for this season—Tuesday when the Giants running back agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $11 million.

Prior to securing the deal a day before New York started training camp, it was not certain whether Barkley would be present for practice without a new contract. On Thursday, the two-time Pro Bowler addressed reporters for the first time, sharing why he considered sitting out from the franchise’s training camp but ultimately chose to play the game he loves.

“I’ll be completely honest, if I sat out this year and say if the New York football Giants and I sat out and we did not have a good record, you think that’s going to make another team in free agency or the Giants have me come back the next year if I sat out a whole year,” Barkley said.

“’Oh we want to give you $15 million a year now.’ I don’t think that is how it’s going to work. And after having conversations and really breaking it down, the only way I am going to make a change or do something that’s going to benefit myself and my family is doing what I do best.”

Barkley’s new deal came after the 26-year-old made it clear that he was not signing the franchise tag ahead of free agency in the spring. With a new deal in place—one that includes a $2 million signing bonus—and Barkley in attendance for training camp, the Giants can begin building on what they established in the ’22 campaign under coach Brian Daboll.

Last season, Barkley tallied a career-high 1,312 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground while also catching 57 passes for 338 yards.