Headline: Giants Urged to Replace Saquon Barkley with Colts Free Agent in 2024 NFL Free Agency
The New York Giants are facing a crucial decision regarding the future of star running back Saquon Barkley. To avoid any potential drama, the Giants should consider letting Barkley explore his options in free agency and turn to Zack Moss of the Indianapolis Colts as a replacement.
This idea has been proposed by Dan Duggan of The Athletic, who believes that if Barkley receives a strong offer on the market, the Giants should graciously thank him for his outstanding six years of service. Once Barkley departs, Moss would step in as the new running back for the Giants.
Moss may not possess the same level of dynamism and versatility as Barkley, but he brings other valuable qualities to the table. Having played under Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll during his time with the Buffalo Bills, Moss has proven to be a tough and resourceful veteran. He showcased his abilities when he took on a heavier workload for the Colts last season, stepping up in the absence of injured All-Pro Jonathan Taylor.
In his eight starts for the Colts, Moss averaged 13.1 rushing attempts per game and displayed a respectable 4.3 yards per carry. One standout performance came against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 3, where he rushed for 122 yards, demonstrating his patience and skill in bouncing off tackles for significant gains.
Moss continued to impress two weeks later, recording 165 rushing yards on 23 carries against the Tennessee Titans. He even scored two touchdowns, including a remarkable 56-yard run that showcased his breakaway speed.
Not only is Moss effective in the running game, but he is also a reliable receiver and pass protector. In 2023, he achieved a career-high of 37 catches, with 10 of them resulting in crucial first downs.
Moss’ ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him an attractive option for the Giants. As they navigate the 2024 NFL free agency, considering Moss as a replacement for Barkley could be a wise move for the team’s future success.
Daboll Eyes Moss as Perfect Fit for Giants Offense
In a stunning turn of events, the New York Giants are reportedly considering signing running back Zack Moss as a cost-effective alternative to re-signing star player Saquon Barkley. While Moss may not possess the same level of explosiveness as Barkley, his versatility and well-rounded skill set would make him an ideal complement to quarterback Daniel Jones.
According to Spotrac.com, Barkley’s market value is estimated to be a staggering $9.9 million per year for three years. This hefty price tag may prove too steep for the Giants, who are looking to address other pressing needs on their roster. With a salary cap of $26,012,449 at their disposal, the team must prioritize strengthening the offensive line, bolstering the secondary, and adding a game-changing wide receiver.
Fortunately, Moss presents an enticing option at a fraction of the cost. A projected contract of $4.6 million annually for two years would not only be a budget-friendly compromise but also allow the Giants to allocate their resources more strategically. Barkley, on the other hand, is eager to secure a lucrative deal and is already open to exploring offers from other teams, with the Giants retaining the right to match.
As the Giants weigh their options, offensive coordinator Brian Daboll is confident that Moss would seamlessly adapt to the team’s scheme. While he may not shoulder the same workload as Barkley, Moss’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game would make him an invaluable asset for the Giants.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
James Dudko, Sports Reporter
According to the Source heavy.com