The New York Giants risk losing star running back Saquon Barkley to free agency this year. If Barkley walks, the Giants will prioritize signing a running back in free agency. One familiar figure from the NFC East may be a good fit for the Giants in free agency.
The Giants have listed a top landing location for D’Andre Swift in free agency.
D’Andre Swift, the Philadelphia Eagles rushing back, will also be a free agency this offseason, and the Giants could be a suitable fit for the 25-year-old rusher. According to Pro Football Focus, Big Blue is one of Swift’s top free agency destinations:
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“If the Giants elect to move on from Saquon Barkley, they could pivot to another former top draft pick who played in their division the past year,” PFF’s Brad Spielberger noted. “Swift showed growth in 2023, hitting the designed hole and not trying to bounce outside too often — an area Barkley has similarly improved in over the years — and offers pass-catching ability, as well.”
Should the Giants target Swift?
Swift had a breakthrough campaign in 2023. He achieved a new career best of 1,049 rushing yards, easily surpassing his previous record of 617 (2021). Swift proved to be a strong starting running back for the Eagles this season, recording 50 first downs and five touchdowns on the ground. He also gained 214 yards and one touchdown as a receiver this season.
Losing Barkley would be difficult for New York, but Swift might replace most of his output. After all, Swift ended the season with more rushing yards and total yards from scrimmage than Barkley. Swift made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career this season.
Swift, a former second-round pick with the Detroit Lions in 2020, has failed to meet expectations in his first three seasons. However, after being moved to the Eagles this past offseason, Swift took advantage of the change of atmosphere and established himself as one of the league’s top runners.
Can the Giants afford to sign Swift?
Swift will be able to cash in big this offseason as a result of her outstanding campaign. According to Spotrac’s estimated market value, he will sign a contract worth $6.7 million per year this summer. While this may be a high fee for a running back, it is likely a fraction of what the Giants will have to pay Barkley this offseason.
If the Giants do not keep Barkley, Swift could be an ideal acquisition this offseason. He’s a high-quality rusher who, at 25, is only entering his peak, coming off his first 1,000-yard season. Swift could be the ideal replacement for Barkley as a three-down rushing back with strong receiving skills.
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