Name this “Endgame Saquon Barkley.”
In Tuesday night’s HBO airing of “Hard Knocks,” Episode 3, the concluding steps that prompted Barkley to leave the Giants after six seasons in search of better opportunities in Philadelphia were the captivating subject matter.
A strong message to Giants supporters was tucked into this behind-the-scenes look: general manager Joe Schoen has the final say on football things, even if it irks co-owner John Mara.
The episode begins with Schoen calling Barkley’s agent, Ed Berry, asking, “What would we have to do in order to get Saquon?,” with NFL free agency quickly approaching. Returning and forth makes no sense.
After hearing the figures out loud, Schoen reiterates them: $25 million in guaranteed funds and an average annual salary of $12.5 million over the course of a three-year contract.
“He would be a Giant if I gave him those numbers,” Schoen claims. “All right, I’ll call you back. Maybe this is over my head on Saquon.
After that, Schoen gives Mara a call and says, “I told the agent he’s going to be a Giant if we make that deal.” and he says, “Well…” He hesitated, saying, “I’m not going to say that.”
Coach Brian Daboll then takes a seat in Schoen’s office and they talk about a range of free agents.
Daboll concurs with Schoen when he states, “I think the offensive line is the priority.” They talk about tackle/guard Jermaine Eluemunor and guards Jon Runyan and Robert Hunt.
Daboll affirms to Schoen that his preference is to have Tyrod Taylor return as the backup quarterback.
