The latest episode of HBO’s Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants has unveiled some surprising truths about star running back Saquon Barkley’s contract negotiations with his former team.
Barkley, who now plays for the Philadelphia Eagles, previously claimed on Twitter that he “never got an offer” to return to the New York Giants, where he spent the first six seasons of his career. However, the show reveals a different story.
In the episode, Giants General Manager Joe Schoen is seen discussing the future with Barkley, indicating that efforts were indeed made to retain him. “The right thing to do is let you test the market and see what your value is. I don’t want to do the franchise thing, or all that again, I don’t want to go through that, we’ve both been through that,” Schoen told Barkley.
Schoen emphasized the team’s respect for Barkley and their willingness to negotiate based on his market value. “If you really want to be a Giant for life and you’re interested in staying here and coming back, just see what your market is and have Ed [Berry, Barkley’s agent] come back to us and we’ll see if we can come to an agreement,” Schoen continued.
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He added, “Can you give me your word on that or are you not going to give us a chance?” Barkley responded affirmatively, stating, “I mean, I already told you where I want to be.”
The GM reiterated his appreciation for Barkley’s contributions and expressed a desire to reach an agreement. “Alright let’s do that and see what the market says. I think it’s the right thing to do. I love you, man, and I appreciate everything you did for the organization the two years I was here, and I’m not saying we’re not gonna get something done, but I think it’s right that if for some reason it doesn’t work out, you know that the organization thinks the world of you and everything you’ve done.”
Despite being named Offensive Rookie of the Year and earning two Pro Bowl selections during his tenure with the Giants, Barkley has had over 1,000 receiving yards in just three of his six NFL seasons. His best statistical season remains his rookie year, where he set career highs in yards per carry, touchdowns, receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns.
This offseason, Barkley signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, which includes $26 million guaranteed. He joins an already potent offense featuring quarterback Jalen Hurts, wide receivers AJ Brown and Devonta Smith, and tight end Dallas Goedert.
The revelations from Hard Knocks suggest that the Giants made a genuine effort to retain Barkley, challenging his earlier public claims. As Barkley transitions to his new role with the Eagles, the episode sheds light on the complexities and behind-the-scenes negotiations that characterize the NFL off-season.
