On Wednesday, the New York Giants picked up RB Saquon Barkley's fifth-year option.
The 2nd overall pick from the 2018 draft made an everlasting impression in his rookie year. He won the 2018 offensive rookie of the year award, after rushing for over 1300 yards. In 2019, Barkley ran for 1003 yards which gave him a franchise record for two consecutive seasons with rushing years totaling over 1000.
However, this past season was not how Barkley or the Giants envisioned it going. In week 2 vs. the Bears, Barkley tore his ACL, forcing him out for the rest of the season. Barkley got surgery in October and plans to be back in time for the 2021 season.
With the Giants picking up his fifth-year option, Barkley, barring any trades, will be a Giant at least through 2022. It also protects him against injury. Team President, John Mara, said back in January that he expects him to, "be a Giant for a very long time."
Long Term Contract Still An Option For Giants and Barkley
The team is still very open to discussing a long-term deal with Barkley, as is he, so we shouldn't be expecting that to cause any real issues for the team in the foreseeable future.
The Giants have repeatedly told reporters they have full confidence in Saquon's ability when he returns. "We fully expect him to be good as new," Mara said.
The Giants have full faith in Saquon to return healthy and contribute to this revamped offense.
