EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – If Saquon Barkley is as difficult to pin down on the field as he was in his news conference on Friday, he won't be tackled all season.
The biggest Giants question in the final hours before their season opener Sunday against the Denver Broncos is whether their star running back will play. But Barkley dodged that question as successfully as he has eluded numerous defenders in his short but brilliant career.
Barkley seems sufficiently recovered from his reconstructive knee surgery to carry the ball against Denver, but he needs the final approval of the team's medical staff before putting on his blue No. 26 jersey. He said he would speak to senior vice president of medical services Ronnie Barnes and director of rehabilitation/physical therapist Leigh Weiss.
"He's got to go through the medical staff a little bit," coach Joe Judge said. "He's got to go a little bit through the medical staff and doctors kind of considering a couple things."
Barkley insists he will not lobby to play.
"I'm going to go in there, I'm (going to) sit down and I'm going to say, 'I'm going to do whatever the team wants me to do,' and whatever they believe is the best thing for me and for the team and if they feel like it's ready for me to go, then I'm ready to go," Barkley said. "If they feel like they think I should wait it out a little bit, then I'll wait it out a little bit."
Asked prior to practice what it would take for Barkley not to play, Judge said, "I'd say some kind of a setback that's unforeseen that would happen today or some kind of response to his body after practice with going through a week of practice, what he looks like."
Barkley responded after coming off the field, "I didn't have a setback. We had a great practice as a team. You want to come out here and have a fast Friday and look crisp. Obviously, throughout the team period, I think we did a great job as a team. Now, we've got to go back, watch some more film, get our bodies right and get ready for Sunday.
"I wouldn't go out there if I didn't feel confident that I could protect myself and be helpful for the team. That's going to come within the conversations that obviously coach Judge and the doc and Leigh and Barnes have, and that'll kind of be, I guess the indicator with how I feel and how this week went whether I guess I play this week or not."
Barkley suffered a serious knee injury in Chicago last Sept. 20 and underwent surgery on Oct. 30. He has assiduously followed the medical staff's directives throughout his rehabilitation, which stressed deliberation and steady progress instead of trying to beat a deadline. Now that he is so close to the finish line, Barkley won't digress.
If that means missing the game Sunday, so be it.
"I'm sticking to the game plan," Barkley said. "I knew this was going to be a tough rehab process with my knee, what happened with my knee. I knew it wasn't going to be easy to get back, but I said I made a promise to myself that I'm not going to rush it. I'm going to go out there and be a team player. I'm going to listen to everyone that I'm working with. I'm not the expert in this area, so I'm going to listen to them. (The) only thing I know I can do is attack at full speed, go out there and work my butt off to get myself the best opportunity and just stick with the game plan.
"So, that's why when I come up here and I say that's how I'm going to go up there to meetings, and say whatever the team wants me to do or when I come up here and I say I take it one day at a time, that's not just some B.S. to you guys so you guys can't go write that I might play here, I might play there. It's me being real, it's me being honest. That's my mindset I've had throughout this whole rehab process and I'm going to have for the rest of my career. I'm going to take it one day at a time, I'm going to cherish every moment because the game could be taken away from you at any moment."
View photos of Giants running back Saquon Barkley's time with the New York Giants.
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and Tommy DeVito celebrate after a catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps into the end zone during a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) attempts a catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and center John Michael Schmitz Jr. (61) during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 6 NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, October 15, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26), TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a week 12 NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, November 28, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
Saquon Barkley (26),
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley during week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during a week 8 regular season game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday October 27th, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 7 regular season game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday October 20th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, TX
Saquon Barkley (26), Jon Feliciano (76)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 2 regular season game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium on Sunday September 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) participates in Training Camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 1 regular season game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Sunday September 8th, 2019 in Arlington, Texas
RB Saquon Barkley (26) New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches a pass as Houston Texans linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate Barkley's touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants tight end Kaden Smith, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with running back Saquon Barkley, right, during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A young fan reacts after New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley gifted him a ball after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday December 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, left, runs for a long touchdown as Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) tries to make the tackle during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, looks at Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) while scoring on a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Philadelphia Eagles' Daeshon Hall (74) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Darius Slayton, left, and Saquon Barkley celebrate after Slayton scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (90) dives over the line to tackle New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown on a four yard reception against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, score a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Sept. 15, 2019, file photo, New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley has been cleared to return to the Giants' lineup for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 35-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
FILE - In this Aug. 16, 2019, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) greets fans before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley set team rookie records for yards rushing (1,307) receptions (91) and total touchdowns (15) playing behind a bad line. With trade acquisition Kevin Zeitler at right guard, free agent Mike Remmers at right tackle and C Jon Halapio back from from a major leg injury, this could be an even bigger year for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and the league leader in yards from scrimmage (2,028). (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over the top to score a touchdown during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26), right, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, celebrates his touchdown with teammates during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Scott Simonson (82) celebrates a touchdown with running back Saquon Barkley (26), wide receiver Bennie Fowler (18) and wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
FILE - In this Dec. 23, 2018, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in for a touchdown in front of Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Darius Leonard (53) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. The betting favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is Barkley, taken No. 2 behind Cleveland’s Baker Mayfield in the draft this past spring. (AP Photo/AJ Mast, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley reacts after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for yardage in action against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover, Md. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
FILE - In this Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018 file photo,New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md. How popular is Saquon Barkley? Well, lots of fans want to look like him. Enough so that Barkley tops the DICK'S Sporting Goods Jersey report for sales. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is picked up offensive guard Jamon Brown (78) as they celebrate his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 14 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover Md. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts to his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning during the first half of the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. The Eagles won 25-22. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Bennie Fowler during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates a touchdown score by Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown as Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Chandon Sullivan (39) and outside linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (54) try to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants rookie running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a week 11 NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. New York won 38-35. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him and Buccaneers linebackers Riley Bullough (49) and Adarius Taylor (53) look on during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) jumps past San Francisco 49ers defensive back K'Waun Williams during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26), center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs uncontested for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, October 7, 2018, in Charlotte, Nc. The Panthers won 33-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs in for a touchdown during the second half of the team's NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jason E. Miczek)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Charlotte,N.C. (Logan Bowles via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) catches a touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs past Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley jumps over defenders for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning (10) during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018 in Houston. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) breaks a tackle by Jacksonville Jaguars' Tashaun Gipson (39) to run for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) smiles and celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley evades a tackle by New York Jets' Harvey Langi (44), Marcus Maye (20) and Brandon Copeland (51) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs down field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball past Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Robert Davis (14) in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Miami Dolphins defensive back Nik Needham (40) holds on in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is tackled by Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin (47) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) walks off the field during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks free from a tackle during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball up the field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley watches against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes during the NFL football team's practice in East Rutherford, N.J., Friday, Aug. 5, 2022. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as New England Patriots defensive tackle Carl Davis Jr. (98) defends during the first half of a preseason NFL football game Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the New England Patriots during an NFL preseason football game at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the New England Patriots during an NFL preseason football game at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley smiles before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley plays during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) walks off the field after the Giants lost 21-6 to the Dallas Cowboys in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley plays during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Laurence Kesterson)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) in action against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-10. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs against the Philadelphia Eagles during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis (26) of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs past New Orleans Saints cornerback Bradley Roby (21) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs up the field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 13-7. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches a pass in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs past New Orleans Saints cornerback Bradley Roby (21) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs a route against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs away from Tampa Bay Buccaneers inside linebacker Devin White (45) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries ahead of New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks away from Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) as he runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores on a touchdown reception against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) running downfield with the ball against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs to avoid a tackle from Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) evades a tackle from Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a football game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday October 30, 2022 in Seattle, Washington (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
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New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
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It would be the summer's biggest understatement to say Barkley's teammates are eager to have him join them on the field against the Broncos.
"I think he looks great," quarterback Daniel Jones said. "I think he's done a great job following what the trainers and the doctors have told him to do. He looks good practicing. He's practicing hard and he looks really good.
"I think he's an unbelievable athlete. You can tell with the ball in his hands, the way he runs routes, he's an explosive guy and he certainly looks really good."
"This is my first year playing with him and I'm happy for him," wide receiver Kenny Golladay said. "I've seen the work he's put in. I've seen, once he got back on the field, how happy he was that he was able to feel like himself again and that's huge. Having 26 out there on that football field with us is going to make a lot of peoples' day a lot easier."
One factor the Giants will likely consider is they will have just three days off before playing at Washington on Thursday. Giving Barkley some extra rest and have him debut against the defending NFC East champion is a potential option.
"I think the thing about Saquon is the guys respect how he's worked, and they see how hard and long a journey it's been for him to come all the way back from where he's been and what he's done off the field, what he's done from a leadership standpoint," Judge said. "The things he's had to go through and the attitude he's displayed along the way to put himself in position to potentially play Week 1, Week 2, wherever it may end up being, hopefully sooner than later. But I'd say in terms of the emotion around that, I think everyone's just genuinely happy for this guy and is really doing everything he can, like they would for any teammates who has worked this hard to get back, for him to have success when he finally does."
Whenever does play, he's going to savor every second.
"I've been thinking about just playing back on Sunday in front of fans since probably a week after my injury," he said. "Obviously, you have that little state of mind where you're upset. You're like, 'Why me?' You're depressed and this and that, but then it's come to kind of right after – you've got to start grinding and getting yourself back. I'm a big visualizer thinker so I've been fantasizing of getting back on that field with my teammates and playing in there in front of fans. Obviously, last year we didn't have fans, so whenever the opportunity does come, it's something that I'm definitely going to cherish and never take for granted again."
Limited Tickets Available for Giants vs. Broncos
Limited tickets are available for the Giants' home opener vs. the Broncos on Sunday
