Saquon Barkley's future as a New York Giant may not be as secure as first thought, according to Giants General Manager Dave Gettleman.
According to NBC Sports, Gettleman suggested on Tuesday that it's not guaranteed that they'll pick up the fifth-year option on the running back's contract.
Gettleman said that Barkley's health was of main concern in contract talks, with his recovery from a torn ACL issue the biggest concern.
Speaking to Yahoo Sports, Gettleman said:
“Obviously we’re gonna have to make a decision this spring whether we pick up his fifth-year option. But certainly, it’s unknown, and what you have to do is get your trainer and your doctors involved.”
In January, Giants owner John Mara said he wanted to see Barkley remain a Giant for “a long time”, but it seems as though his GM didn't get the memo.
“I’m still happy that we have him. I think knowing him, he’s going to come back stronger than ever and be a big part of this team next year,” announced Mara.
Barkley tore his ACL on his right knee in the Giants Week 2 loss to the Chicago Bears, and a month later he underwent surgery to repair the injury. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Barkley was the second pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and led the NFL in yards from scrimmage in his rookie season. and claimed the league's Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
Since that breakout year however he has been plagued by injury, with a right ankle sprain hampering his second season to only 13 games.
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