New York Giants star running back Saquon Barkley is set to be a free agent for the second consecutive year. The big difference in 2024 compared to 2023 is that the team isn’t planning on using the franchise tag on him.

After working out a four-year deal with quarterback Daniel Jones right before the franchise tag deadline last year, the Giants opted to place the tag on Saquon Barkley. It led to an ugly offseason between the two sides, but differences were put aside when he signed an amended one-year deal ahead of training camp.

With another season of wear and tear and three more missed games, it is hard to imagine the Giants giving him the kind of long-term deal that he is seeking. Saquon Barkley is the most important part of their offense, but paying a premium price for a running back isn’t a luxury New York can currently afford.

Likely hitting the open market, it will be interesting to see where the No. 2 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft lands. When healthy, he has proven to be a dynamic playmaker that is capable fo carrying an offense on his own.

NFL News & Rumors: Saquon Barkley, 2024 NFL Free Agency, New York Giants, Houston Texans Updates

According to Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, one team to keep an eye on is the Houston Texans. As shared by Covers on X, Wilson is reporting that Saquon Barkley has reportedly narrowed his preferred landing spot in free agency to be the Texans.

With Devin Singletary and Dare Ogunbowale both hitting free agency, the Texans could be in the market for another running back. Dameon Pierce had an excellent rookie season in 2022, but injuries derailed his 2023 campaign, which saw Singletary take over as the leadback down the stretch.

Saquon Barkley would provide the Texans with another experienced option on their offense to help take pressure off of C.J. Stroud. Stroud produced one of the most impressive rookie seasons in NFL history and his presence is a big reason the Penn State product is considering Houston in free agency.

According to Wilson, Stroud has been in contact with Saquon Barkley and it sounds like those conversations have been positive. Adding him to the backfield would raise the floor of this offense, making them an even more dangerous unit.

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