Avoiding another lengthy debate over aSaquon Barkley’s future should be a top objective for the New York Giants in 2024 NFL free agency. The greatest option would be to let the two-time Pro Bowl running back test the market before replacing him with Zack Moss of the Indianapolis Colts.
Dan Duggan of The Athletic proposed this idea. According to him, “if Barkley gets a strong offer on the market, the Giants should shake his hand and thank him for six years of exemplary service.”
When Barkley leaves for pastures new, Moss enters the picture, according to Duggan: “Then they should pivot to a cheap veteran, like Zack Moss (projected two-year, $7.5 million contract by PFF), in a loaded free-agent market and draft a back on Day 3.”
Even if Moss isn’t as dynamic or diverse as Barkley, this is an excellent suggestion. Moss did play for Giants head coach Brian Daboll during his two seasons with the Buffalo Bills.
Daboll recognizes Moss as a tough and resourceful veteran. When Colts All-Pro Jonathan Taylor suffered injuries last season, the 26-year-old demonstrated his ability to manage a bigger workload.Moss made eight starts for the 9-8 Colts, averaging 13.1 rushing attempts per game. It was the 26-year-old’s first week in a starting role, yet Moss averaged 4.3 yards per carry.
He was in excellent form early in the season, rumbling the Baltimore Ravens for 122 yards in Week 3. Moss demonstrated his patience and wisdom by bouncing this run-off tackle for a large gain, as reported by Chris Shepherd of SB Nation’s Stampede Blue.Moss had an even better performance two weeks later, when he rushed for 165 yards on 23 carries against the Tennessee Titans. He converted two of his carries into scores.
The first of these scores covered 56 yards and demonstrated the breakaway speed of the 2020 NFL draft third-round pick’s game.Moss excels in the running game, but he’s also an effective receiver and pass-protector. He had a career-high 37 catches in 2023, with 10 of them moving the sticks for first downs, according to Pro Football Reference.
Moss’ finest grab of the season scorched the Ravens for a touchdown at M&T Bank Stadium.Daboll could trust on Moss to swiftly learn the Giants’ scheme. While Moss would not be the 30-carry workhorse Barkley is, his all-around game would make him an excellent backup for quarterback Daniel Jones.
Offering Moss a contract would also be a less expensive option than re-signing Bark
ley.Barkley’s market value of $9.9 million per year for three years, according to Spotrac.com, is likely too high for the Giants. The franchise will have $26,012,449 to deal with within the salary cap.
It’s a respectable figure, but the Giants have more pressing needs than running backs. Needs include strengthening the offensive line, retooling the secondary, and adding a big talent at wide out.
Fixing these flaws should make a contract worth $4.6 million per year for two years appealing. That is what it could take to obtain Moss.
This arrangement would be an inexpensive compromise for both the Giants and Barkley. The latter wants to be paid and is already willing to test the market, allowing the Giants to match whatever offers they make.
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