Saquon Barkley – Best Potential Landing Spots for 2024

With a new season of NFL free agency set to begin in 2024, it appears New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is poised to lead this year’s running back class. With that, we’ll be breaking down the best potential landing spots for the star running back for 2024 and beyond.

Barkley isn’t the only name that will be floating around in regards to running backs available this offseason. Derrick Henry, Tony Pollard, Austin Ekeler, and Josh Jacobs will all be vying for a new contract. Whether it be through free agency, re-signing with their current team, or getting hit with the franchise tag.

Best Landing Spots for RB Saquon Barkley for 2024

It remains to be seen whether Barkley gets franchise-tagged for the second straight year, which will cost the Giants around $11 million. With that said, there should be plenty of interest in the former Penn State star. Barkley still posted 1,242 total yards and 10 touchdowns, despite the Giants failing in almost every offensive category last season.

With that said, let’s take a look at which teams could be looking at adding Barkley to their backfield.

Minnesota Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings had a huge hole in their backfield after giving Dalvin Cook his walking papers last offseason. Incumbent Alexander Mattison failed in his audition as the new starter. The Vikings traded for Cam Akers, but an ACL tear against the Falcons sidelined his chances of solidifying himself as the guy. With Justin Jefferson and TJ Hockenson leading the passing attack, signing Barkley should make the Vikings a contender. We should point out that the Vikings resigning Kirk Cousins would make Barkley much more valuable.

Cincinnati Bengals

Another team staring at question marks in their backfield is the Cincinnati Bengals. Will Joe Mixon re-sign with the team? The 28-year-old, who took a $4.39 million pay cut before the start of the 2023 season, isn’t as explosive as Barkley. However, don’t be shocked to see the Bengals let him walk. This would leave just Chase Brown and Trayveon Williams as the only other backs on their roster.

Furthermore, the Bengals have to decide whether they want to franchise wide receiver Tee Higgins. Likely, Higgins will be a higher priority for the team than Mixon. If they do move on from Mixon, adding Barkley will make this offense a headache for defensive coordinators.

Philadelphia Eagles

In the past, the Philadelphia Eagles have never been known to throw crazy money at any one player. However, they have shown a willingness to bring in talent if they need it. Most recently, playmakers AJ Brown and D’Andre Swift come to mind.

Swift, Rashad Penny, and Boston Scott are all set to hit free agency, with only Kenneth Gainwell left in the backfield. The Eagles have never put a premium on the running back position, but that could change after a disastrous ending to 2024. If Barkley is looking to re-establish his dominance as a runner, signing a one-year prove-it deal could be in the cards in Philadelphia.

Chicago Bears

The Bears are expected to make a lot of noise this offseason as they makeover their disaster of an offense. Khalil Herbert is not a three-down back. D’Onta Foreman was a mediocre band-aid and is set to hit free agency. Rookie Roschon Johnson has promise, but his starting job prospects are dim. The Bears have issues elsewhere, including quarterback, but look for the team to make signing a running back their top priority. Despite the offensive woes, Herbert still managed a respectful 4.6 yards per carry average in 2023.

Dallas Cowboys

It’s anyone’s guess as to what owner Jerry Jones will do this offseason. Tony Pollard is looking at free agency. And there has been no news on a potential franchise designation, unlike 2023. With Pollard and backup Rico Dowdle set to walk, that leaves Malik Davis as the lone running back the team has. Barkley is very familiar with the Cowboys, having played 10 games with an average of 58 yards per contest. If there is a revenge factor, Barkley joining the Cowboys would fill that need.

Honorable Mentions: Washington Commanders or  Houston Texans