Saquon Barkley said recently at his camp that he will not make a "definitive declaration" about what he's going to do for the 2023 season until we get to the July 17th deadline for franchise-tagged players to get a long-term extension. Per Rapoport, there is still room for a deal. Talks are "back on" for a possible extension beyond the franchise tag.

Related Players: Matt Breida, Eric Gray, Gary Brightwell

This is a positive spin after Barkley mentioned less than two weeks ago that he would consider sitting out the entirety of the 2023 season if he needs to. A long-term deal for the running back entering his sixth year seems unlikely, but there's no doubt that Barkley remains one of the most talented backs in the league when healthy.

Saquon Barkley and the New York Giants have until July 17 to come to a long-term contract, or the running back will play 2023 under the $10.1 million franchise tag.

Unless he sits out the entire season.

Barkley told reporters Sunday following his youth football camp in Jersey City that sitting out the campaign is an option he'd consider if it comes to that.

Related Players: Matt Breida, Eric Gray, Gary Brightwell

Most fantasy players will remember the disastrous results that came when Le'Veon Bell sat out a season as an aging running back and the comparisons between that situation and this are pretty stark. It's quite the negotiating ploy but sitting out a season in what could be the twilight of his career is unlikely to translate to future success on the field.

Matt Breida and Gary Brightwell have had their turns with the ball to little success, so Eric Gray may be the most interesting dart throw while we ponder Barkley's future.

The New York Giants had conversations with Saquon Barkley's representatives last week. They'll "reconvene" now that the draft is over to see if there is a deal that makes sense for both sides at this point. An unhappy Barkley has not signed his franchise tag and therefore is not participating in the voluntary portion of the team's offseason program. The two sides were not able to reach an agreement on a new long-term deal prior to the tag deadline last month.

Related Players: Matt Breida, Eric Gray

Regardless of what you may think of Daniel Jones, it makes sense that the team made the quarterback a priority during the offseason if that's who they think will be their franchise signal-caller. Barkley has a right to be upset, but he also has a risky injury history that the team needs to take into account.

The Giants didn't add a ton to their pass-catching group through the NFL Draft, so if a deal can get done, and Barkley remains healthy, he should have a good chance to operate as the main cog of the team's offense.