Saquon Barkley is one of the biggest stars in the entire NFL.
Despite not living up to the hype and sky-high expectations that were laid on him when he was drafted second-overall by the New York Giants in 2018, Barkley remains very well-respected across the entire league.
Big Blue’s dysfunction and poor offensive line play has as much to do with his struggles than anything.
However, the fact remains that Barkley has gained a whole lot of miles on his tires these past six years and we all know how the cards are stacked against running backs these days.
Giants fans seeing Saquon Barkley injured pic.twitter.com/MVEYwtjfMU
— Blake Garman (@FrostedBlakes34) September 17, 2023
Having said that, Barkley is still just 27-years-old and is hungry to be on a winner.
He’s made it clear that his preference is to stay with the Giants, but in reality, there is very little chance of that happening.
Set to become a free agent, there figures to be great interest in the two-time Pro Bowler who still has good football left in him.
Saquon Barkley’s highlights set to the Space Jam soundtrack is perfect pic.twitter.com/uRuQpR8K84
— Athlete Swag (@AthleteSwag) January 5, 2019
The destination that is becoming more and more likely for him is the Houston Texans.
Clearly, the Texans are far ahead of schedule thanks in large part to quarterback C.J. Stroud who is coming off a phenomenal rookie season.
Stroud has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league. Houston is also filled with plenty of young talent and are set up to make a whole lot of noise in the AFC South for years to come.
“Why do you want Saquon Barkley?”
Mf I watched Danny Ammendola, Rex Burkhead, and Chris Conley lead this offense it’s time Texans fans get spoiled pic.twitter.com/MazHY8lWpQ
— Eli 🦅 (@EliATK_) February 29, 2024
The speculation of Barkley-to-Houston is strong and for good reason. As a matter of fact, Barkley has reportedly already been in touch with Stroud about teaming up.
“The headliner of the running back free agent class is New York Giants star Saquon Barkley, who has targeted the Texans as his top potential destination and has been communicating with Stroud, per league sources,” Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston reported.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: #Giants runningback Saquon Barkley has been in contact with CJ Stroud and is targeting the #Texans as his top potential destination in free agency, per @AaronWilson_NFL
“The headliner of the running back free agent class is New York Giants star Saquon Barkley, who… pic.twitter.com/KDQEUoSewL
— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) February 29, 2024
Should Barkley decide to join the Texans, the team would immediately become a formidable contender in the AFC.
With a projected $67.4 million in salary cap space, the Texans are considered one of the more attractive destinations for free agents in the NFL.
Head coach DeMeco Ryans’ impact also can’t be understated. He’s popular around the league and is a coach that many players would love to play for.
Aaron Wilson explains the feeling is “mutual” when it comes to the Saquon Barkley to Houston rumors. pic.twitter.com/PLCqDU5EXB
— Harley Dugan (@TheLead_HOU) February 26, 2024
The big concern with Barkley is his long injury history. In a way, he’s 27-going-on-32.
His trademark explosion isn’t quite what it used to be, but again, he still has plenty of good football left in his legs.
Having said that, the Texans would be wise not to overspend for Barkley. One of the worst things you can do these days is commit too much money to a running back.
That sucks for Barkley and running backs everywhere. But it’s the sad truth.
Jordan Raanan asked a GM what Saquon Barkley might get and it could be around $8-10 million per year
— Jimmy T (@slimjimisfunny) March 1, 2024
Barkley has always been a good soldier and a role model both on and off the field. He would bring elite leadership to any locker room he joins.
Will that be in Houston?
Or will Giants general manager Joe Schoen end up working something out to have him remain with Big Blue?
In reality, a fresh start and clean slate is probably best for both sides.
Are the Texans the best fit for Barkley???
Uh oh 👀
Not to mention Saquon Barkley was following Texans players all week.. pic.twitter.com/dMOZCJ0PlN
— Clutch City Entertainment (@ClutchCityENTX) February 24, 2024