The New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen wanted to keep star running back Saquon Barkley on the team, but he also wanted to ensure that the contract offer was fair and in line with the running back market. The recent episode of “Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants” shed light on Schoen’s approach to negotiating with Barkley after deciding not to franchise tag him for a second consecutive year.
Schoen discussed his strategy with assistant general manager Brandon Brown during the NFL Scouting Combine, emphasizing the importance of offering Barkley a deal that reflected his value to the team. He wanted Barkley to feel respected and appreciated while also considering the financial aspect of the contract.
In a phone conversation with Brown, Schoen expressed his concerns about making an initial offer that could be perceived as disrespectful to Barkley. He wanted to strike the right balance between valuing Barkley’s contributions and being mindful of the running back’s future performance as he approached his late 20s.
Ultimately, Schoen decided to let Barkley test the free-agent market to determine his market value. He communicated this decision to Barkley, expressing his desire for the running back to explore other opportunities while leaving the door open for a potential return to the Giants if the circumstances aligned.
Despite Schoen’s efforts to retain Barkley, the running back signed a lucrative deal with the Philadelphia Eagles when free agency opened. The episode did not reveal whether the Giants had a chance to match the offer or not, leaving the team’s future with Barkley uncertain.
In addition to the Barkley contract negotiations, the episode also highlighted the Giants’ focus on evaluating quarterback prospects at the combine. Due to Daniel Jones’ injury status, Schoen acknowledged the need for a reliable backup quarterback who could potentially step in if Jones was unable to start the season.
The team interviewed several quarterback prospects, including Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, and J.J. McCarthy, to assess their abilities and compatibility with the Giants’ offensive system. Head coach Brian Daboll led the interviews, asking the prospects about their playing style, favorite plays, and decision-making on the field.
Schoen also explored the possibility of trading up in the draft to secure a high-value pick, potentially targeting a quarterback to bolster the team’s roster. He engaged in discussions with the New England Patriots about acquiring the third overall pick, indicating the Giants’ proactive approach to securing top talent in the draft.
Overall, the episode provided insight into the Giants’ offseason strategies, from contract negotiations with key players like Saquon Barkley to evaluating potential draft picks and addressing the team’s quarterback situation. The behind-the-scenes look offered fans a glimpse into the decision-making processes and considerations that shape the team’s roster construction and future direction.