New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen doesn’t consider running back Saquon Barkley untouchable in trade talks as the team looks to get under the salary cap.
On Tuesday, Schoen was asked by reporters at the Combine whether they would be open to trading notable players such as RB Saquon Barkley.
“We’re still working through that, but I’m open to anything. Like whether it’s trading player for player. I’ll listen to anybody,” Schoen said, via NFL.com. “I’m not going to say we’re open for business on our entire roster. But if anybody is going to call and they’re interested in any of our players, I’ll certainly listen.
“We’re in a situation where unfortunately we have to get under the salary cap and we’re not in very good salary cap health. I’m not going to say yes to every deal, but I’m definitely going to listen and be open to situations that are best for the New York Giants.”
Schoen would later add that he’s not willing to listen to offers for WR Kadarius Toney. Cornerback James Bradberry, linebacker Blake Martinez, and tight end Kyle Rudolph are among the other veterans who could be on the chopping block.
Barkley is in the final year of his rookie contract and trading him would free up $7,217,000 of available cap space while creating no dead money. The Giants must clear roughly $12 million of cap space by March 16, which marks the beginning of the new league year.
“There’s a lot of contingency plans that weigh on some of the decisions that we’re going to make,” Schoen said. “We’re getting together with some of the agents of the players on our current roster and starting some initial conversations on different things. But sooner than later, we’ll start making the necessary moves to get under the salary cap and start planning for the 2022 season.”
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In 2021, Barkley appeared in 13 games for the Giants and rushed for 593 yards on 162 carries (3.7 YPC) to go along with 41 receptions for 263 yards receiving and four total touchdowns.
