Charting Clarity: Navigating the New York Giants’ Saquon Barkley Conundrum with the Zack Moss Strategy
Avoiding a prolonged debate over Saquon Barkley’s future must be a focal point for the New York Giants in the 2024 NFL free agency period. The suggestion, proposed by Dan Duggan of The Athletic, entails allowing the two-time Pro-Bowl running back to explore opportunities elsewhere if a compelling offer arises, while pivoting to Zack Moss of the Indianapolis Colts.
Zack Moss with a big run to end the 3rd quarter#Colts#ForTheShoe#Ravens#RavensFlock#INDvsBAL pic.twitter.com/Oobi2EY4b7
— Chris Shepherd (@NFLscheme) September 24, 2023
Duggan suggests, “if Barkley receives a lucrative offer on the open market, the Giants should bid him farewell and express gratitude for his six years of outstanding service.” Upon Barkley’s potential departure, Moss would emerge as a viable alternative, as Duggan explains: “Subsequently, they should turn to a cost-effective veteran like Zack Moss (projected two-year, $7.5 million contract by PFF) amidst a competitive free-agent market and consider drafting a running back on Day 3.”
While Moss may not possess Barkley’s dynamic versatility, he brings familiarity, having played under Giants’ head coach Brian Daboll during their tenure with the Buffalo Bills. Daboll recognizes Moss’s resilience and adaptability. The 26-year-old showcased his capabilities by shouldering a heavier workload during Colts’ games when All-Pro Jonathan Taylor was sidelined due to injuries last season.
ZACK MOSS HOUSE CALL 🏠
📺: #CARvsDET on FOX
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/LxW25sxi72 pic.twitter.com/XVMepoclQD— NFL (@NFL) October 8, 2023
Moss, in his role as a functional starter, made significant contributions for the Colts, averaging 13.1 rushing attempts per game across eight starts. Although not reaching Barkley’s level of dominance, Moss maintained a solid 4.3 yards per carry average, demonstrating consistent production. Notable performances, such as his 122-yard display against the Baltimore Ravens and a 165-yard outing against the Tennessee Titans, underscore his value as a versatile asset in both the running and passing game.
With Daboll’s guidance, Moss is poised to swiftly adapt to the Giants’ offensive scheme. While he may not replicate Barkley’s workload, Moss’s well-rounded skill set would complement quarterback Daniel Jones effectively.
You got Mossed.
📺 CBS pic.twitter.com/wSxip16Wcn
— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) September 24, 2023
Furthermore, signing Moss would present a more financially prudent choice compared to retaining Barkley. Barkley’s projected market value of $9.9 million annually over three years, according to Spotrac.com, may strain the Giants’ budget. With approximately $26,012,449 in available salary cap space, the Giants face pressing needs in bolstering the offensive line, fortifying the secondary, and adding a premier wide receiver.
Opting for Moss’s projected contract of $4.6 million annually for two years offers a cost-effective compromise that aligns with both the Giants’ roster requirements and Barkley’s financial aspirations, as he remains open to exploring other opportunities while allowing the Giants the option to match any offers.
