Saquon Barkley 2018 Outlook
The Giants have been questioned in some quarters for using the second overall pick in April’s draft on Barkley, a running back. Does it make sense to put that kind of value on a runner in a passing league? Perhaps not, but the Giants see Barkley as much more than a runner. Writers for the team's official website are making the case that Barkley's biggest asset is as a receiver, not a runner, and that seems to be echoed in HC Pat Shurmur's view of Barkley as well. Remember: The Giants completed over 100 passes to a suspect group of running backs last year, and Shurmur is a fan of throwing to backs. That means Barkley will likely hit the 300-plus touch mark even if the Giants continue to struggle in terms of running the ball. Barkley has the rare ability to create additional yardage through elusiveness, speed, vision and feel for space in the open field, and the Giants’ upgrades along the offensive line (via free agency and the draft) should help the rookie become a “face of the franchise”-type player. While he carried a heavy load at Penn State, the Nittany Lions’ decision to limit his carries somewhat last season could help Barkley remain fresh over the course of his rookie NFL season. Expect to pay a first-round premium come draft day in order to secure his services.
