Saquon Barkley trade rumors: Giants could struggle to find value

The New York Giants aren’t likely to get very much value back if they want to trade running back Saquon Barkley, according to a new report.

A couple of years ago it looked like the Giants made the perfect draft pick getting Saquon Barkley at No. 2 overall.

Times have changed quickly and after two years of injuries and diminished performance, New York is now shopping the running back.

The problem? They’re not going to get very much back for him, according to league insiders.

A Saquon Barkley trade would net the Giants a third-round pick

Matt Lombardo of FanSided spoke to multiple sources and came away with a sobering message for the Giants: Barkley is worth a third-round pick at best, if he’s worth a trade at all.

“Honestly, I’m not sure anyone makes a trade for Saquon,” one source said. “You talk about ability, durability, and talent, and unfortunately for Saquon, this is just a guy who can’t stay healthy.”

The insider acknowledged Barkley is a “good kid” but “I don’t think I’d give up $7.2 million (in salary), plus a draft pick.”

A current GM called a fourth-round pick a “pretty reasonable” trade compensation.

Meanwhile, a former GM thought differently. They called the draft class of running backs weak and thought New York could pull a second-round pick for Barkley.

The Giants brass has to decide if parting ways with Barkley is the best call for their franchise. Yes, a trade would give them a draft asset and take $7.2 million off their books. At the same time, Barkley rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of his first two seasons. Is he worth more to the team as a trade than he would be on the field?

It sounds like New York has to hope a Super Bowl contender comes to the table with a strong offer.