Report: The Near Miss of Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs’s Potential Partnership

Close But No Deal: Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs Reportedly Miss Out on Long-Term Contracts

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July 18, 2023

The deadline for franchise-tagged players to secure long-term contracts with their respective teams has passed, and unfortunately for running backs Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs, both players were unable to come to an agreement. As a result, both Barkley and Jacobs are expected to hold out of training camp, making their futures uncertain.

Negotiations in the Works

While neither Barkley nor Jacobs were able to lock in long-term deals, reports suggest that they were close to securing agreements with their respective teams. The New York Post revealed that the Giants made a final three-year offer to Barkley that would have paid him approximately $11-11.5 million per year. The deal also included guarantees of around $22-23 million. These numbers were within $1-2 million of Barkley’s desired figures, indicating a potential deal almost in reach.

Jacobs, on the other hand, was reportedly even closer to finalizing a contract. NFL Media reported that Jacobs and teammate Maxx Crosby were waiting in the team’s parking lot, prepared to sign the agreement had it been reached before the deadline. While the specific financial details of Jacobs’ negotiations have not been disclosed, it is evident that the Raiders were keen on securing him for the long term.

The Ongoing Devaluation of Running Backs

The fact that both Barkley and Jacobs were unable to secure long-term contracts sheds light on the changing perception of running backs in the NFL. In recent years, teams have increasingly viewed the position as one with diminishing value and have been hesitant to commit to substantial long-term deals for running backs. This trend has been met with criticism from current running backs, who argue that their contributions on the field warrant greater financial investment.

The financial realities of the changing landscape in the NFL have become a point of contention between teams and running backs. However, this situation also presents an opportunity for the league and its players to reevaluate their relationship. With Barkley, Jacobs, and other standout running backs like Jonathan Taylor scheduled to hit the market next offseason, the negotiations that take place then will provide insight into whether a change in approach is on the horizon.

Advice for Barkley and Jacobs

For Barkley and Jacobs, the uncertainty surrounding their futures can be a source of frustration. However, it is important for them to remain focused and professional in their approach. Holding out of training camp can be a risky move, as it could potentially damage their relationships with their teams and hinder their performance on the field.

Instead, both players should consider the benefits of reporting to training camp, even without long-term contracts. By being present and demonstrating their commitment to their teams, they can continue to showcase their value and prove their worth on the field. This approach will not only benefit their current situations but also strengthen their positions for future contract negotiations.

Furthermore, it is crucial for Barkley and Jacobs to continue advocating for fair compensation for running backs throughout the league. By speaking out and engaging in dialogue with both the NFL and the NFL Players Association, they can help bring attention to the financial disparities and work towards creating more equitable contracts for their position.

The Future of Running Backs in the NFL

The lack of long-term deals for Barkley and Jacobs signifies a shift in how running backs are valued in the NFL. While it is uncertain whether this trend will continue in the coming years, it is clear that the league’s perception of running backs has evolved. Moving forward, it is imperative for both the league and the players to find common ground and establish a fair system that recognizes the contributions and worth of running backs in today’s game.