What is the state of play between Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants? Now the franchise tagged running back has spoken out

Things remain complicated between the New York Giants and Saquon Barkley.

The team used the franchise tag to tie up the running back for the upcoming season after the 26-year-old’s contract expired. However, Barkley has not signed yet.

He actually wants a new, long-term deal, but the two sides are apparently still at odds on ideas, as general manager Joe Schoen has already confirmed. He said most recently that there was no progress yet. Neither side is in a hurry at this point, though.

Deal must be signed by July 17

Deadline is July 17, a deal must be in place by then. If Barkley signs the franchise tag, he will get $10.091 million for 2023.

What does Barkley say, “I haven’t talked to Joe much yet. The best way I can deal with it is to keep working. Whatever happens, happens. There are things I can’t really control right now,” Barkley said.

The only thing he can control is how he wakes up every morning and sticks to his goals and passion, he said. Barkley is currently not with the team for the start of the offseason program.

Barkley: “Even though I’m not with the team and not on the field right now, I don’t think anyone at the Giants is worried about my work ethic, and my teammates aren’t worried about how I’m preparing. “