The New York Giants are going through a transition amid an eventful 2024 NFL free agency period. Star running back Saquon Barkley left the team for the Philadelphia Eagles. Moreover, New York retained rising sixth-year quarterback Daniel Jones. Former Pittsburgh Steelers legend Jerome Bettis gave his brutally honest take on the Giants prioritizing Jones over Barkley.

Bettis believes the Giants made a mistake by allowing Barkley to walk.

“Everyone knows they made a big mistake. They paid the wrong guy. It's not even a question. They should have paid (Barkley) and they didn't and they lost him and as a result, they've got to live with that,” Bettis said, per Chris Tomasson.

Is Jerome Bettis correct? The ex-Steelers star certainly can spot a quality running back, given he was one for several years. Saquon Barkley's tenure with New York was not perfect, but he proved to be one of the best RBs in the NFL.

One of Barkley's most productive seasons came in 2022. He ran for a season career-high of 1,312 yards to go with 10 touchdowns in 16 games. Then, Barkley had another respectable year in 2023. The 27-year-old amassed 962 yards and six TDs in 14 contests.

In the end, the Giants did not feel like giving Barkley an increased contract was worth it. Their stance is understandable given the star RB's injury history. Barkley only played two games during the 2020-21 season due a devastating ACL injury. To his credit, he battled back and solidified himself as a high-caliber ball carrier.

Now, Barkley looks to help the Philadelphia Eagles back to the Super Bowl alongside Jalen Hurts.

Meanwhile, New York will be led by Daniel Jones. Some fans and analysts are not pleased with Jones, but upon examining his progression, the team's move to keep him is fitting.

Giants look to leap with Jones, draft capital 

Daniel Jones started his Giants career in 2019 after the team selected him as the sixth overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. The former Duke Blue Devil made an immediate impact. He threw for 3,027 yards and 24 yards during his rookie season. Then, Jones' production took a slight hit over the next years.

Jones amassed 2,943 yards and 11 TDs in 2020-21 and totaled 2,438 yards and 10 TDs the following year. He came back and had a respectful season in 2022 though. Jones threw for a career-high 3,205 yards along with 15 TDs in a career-best 16 games played.

The 26-year-old is coming off a 2023-24 season where he only played six games due to an unfortunate ACL injury. He had amassed 909 yards and two TDs before being shut down for the year.

Daniel Jones' presence has not translated into success for New York, but if returns healthy, fans can expect good production from him. His last full season in 2022 saw him exceed his passing yards career-high, so he could do the same in 2024.

Still, New York is desperate for an improved showing after going 6-11 and missing the NFL Playoffs. The Giants are not done making moves yet. New York possesses the sixth pick in the 2024 draft. However, they are reportedly considering trading up to attain former North Carolina QB Drake Maye, per Pro Football Talk.

All in all, the validity of Jerome Bettis' Saquon Barkley-Daniel Jones comments will be seen when the 2024 regular season starts. Can the Giants get the most out of their talent and make a postseason run?