Star Running Back Saquon Barkley is optimistic that Saturday’s divisional round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles won’t be his last opportunity for the New York Giants to accrue
“I can’t imagine this being my last time in a Giants uniform,” Barkley said after the 38-7 loss.
New York will have to decide what to do with its backfield as Barkley and quarterback Daniel Jones’ contracts expire at the end of the season.
Barkley has made it clear that he would like to stay with the franchise that picked him second in the 2018 NFL Draft.
“I made it clear how I feel, where I want to be and where I want to stay,” he said. “It’s out of my hands and that’s part of the business. Everyone knows how I feel.”
Barkley was called to the Pro Bowl for the second time in his career in 2022. He had 1,312 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns while averaging 4.4 yards per carry. He also had 57 receptions for 338 yards.
Despite having his best season since breaking through as a rookie, Barkley was unable to gain momentum on Saturday. The Eagles limited tailback to 61 yards on nine carries while New York totaled 227 yards.
“We were really beaten in all areas, so it wasn’t one thing in particular,” said Giants head coach Brian Daboll. “It was a team game and we just couldn’t pull it off.”
Jones wasn’t ready to discuss his upcoming free agency and future with the franchise after Saturday’s game. Prior to the season, New York had turned down the option for the fifth year of his rookie contract.
“Like I said, we’re going to cross that bridge when we get there,” Jones said. “I really enjoyed playing here.”
The Giants ended their first season under Daboll with a record of 9-7-1. Prior to Saturday’s loss, New York defeated the Minnesota Vikings in the wild card round.
