There’s a lot of hype surrounding New York Giants rookie running back Saquon Barkley. Barkley was touted by some as the best player in his draft class, and the Giants believed enough in his talent that they took him with the No. 2 overall pick.
Giants co-owner John Mara admits the hype surrounding Barkley is something he hasn’t seen from a Giants rookie perhaps since the great Lawrence Taylor in 1981. Mara also confesses that he’s concerned that about there being too many expectations placed on the young man’s shoulders considering he hasn’t even played a single down yet.
“He obviously has unlimited physical skills, he's a real fine young man, as well,” Mara said per the team’s offical website. “I think he adds a completely different dimension that maybe we haven't had in our offense in quite some time. I do get a little nervous about all the hype since he hasn't played a down yet, but I think he's capable of living up to it and just [is] very mature beyond his years, I think. So, we are obviously very excited about him.”
If it would make Mara feel better, Barkley has said he isn't feeling any pressure ahead of his rookie year despite the incredible hype he’s received. That mindset may help free Barkley to play up to his full potential in his debut campaign.
The Giants should get quite a player if that is indeed the case. Apart from being the workhorse back they haven’t had in quite a while, Barkley also has the potential to provide another dynamic receiving weapon for Eli Manning alongside Odell Beckham Jr. in the Giants offense.
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