In a significant move that has stirred the NFL community, the New York Giants have opted not to franchise tag running back Saquon Barkley for the second consecutive year. This decision, influenced by a blend of financial considerations and positional priorities, pivots away from what Giants management deemed a low-ball offer to the star player.
Giants owner John Mara expressed a preference for retaining Barkley, yet the realities of the modern game and the team's strategic direction led to a different outcome. General manager Joe Schoen elucidated this tactical maneuver, emphasizing the evaluation of age-related performance data which, for running backs, often denotes a decline at 27.
"Bang for your buck," Schoen stated succinctly, highlighting the value assessment driving the Giants' decision. Financial prudence in the highly competitive landscape of the NFL was at the forefront as Barkley's departure became imminent. The Giants anticipated that a saturated market for running backs would not command a high salary for Barkley, yet the Philadelphia Eagles seized the opportunity, signing him to a three-year deal worth $12.5 million per season.
This move by the Giants mirrors a growing trend in the league—teams are increasingly hesitant to offer large contracts to running backs approaching or surpassing the 27-year threshold. Schoen’s reliance on historical data and detailed performance analytics underscored this approach. "The data says that running backs decline at 27," he explained, underscoring a sentiment that is gaining traction among NFL executives.
Barkley's career arc seemingly supports this data. Having shouldered 900 carries during his time at Penn State, followed by six physically taxing seasons in the NFL, it is understandable why performance concerns might arise. Comparisons to peers such as Christian McCaffrey, whose age-27 season unfolded in 2023, and Derrick Henry, who has shown a decline in yards per carry despite maintaining impressive yards per game, serve to justify the Giants' caution.
Meanwhile, other running backs have defied this trend. Frank Gore's enduring success into his 30s and Aaron Jones’ improved performance post-27 present counterpoints. However, these instances are often viewed as exceptions rather than the rule, reinforcing the Giants' strategic decision.
The tactical choice to delay acquiring a new running back until the second week of free agency speaks volumes about the Giants' calculated approach. Schoen’s acknowledgment of historical data and the broader trend within the league reflect a nuanced understanding of both player lifecycle and market dynamics.
This strategic pivot marks a significant chapter in the Giants' broader efforts to balance immediate team needs with long-term viability. As Barkley prepares to don the Eagles' colors, the Giants will look to execute their plan and capitalize on the evolving player market trends.