Barkley: ‘I didn’t know Schoen’s discussion was recorded’

Saquon Barkley claimed he had no idea at the time that his discussion with the NY Giants GM Joe Schoen — an exchange that was featured on HBO’s “Hard Knocks” – was being recorded.

In that discussion, the general manager let Saquon know that instead of making an offer to Barkley or placing the franchise tag on him, the team is going to let the running back be a free agent.

Saquon revealed he saw the taped discussion when watching a trailer for an upcoming episode. The RB stopped short of saying he was “shocked” when asked whether he was surprised that New York gave permission for the dialogue to be featured on the “Hard Knocks.”

“Without a doubt, I also believe they have control of the edits, and they could have painted me really bad,” Saquon shared today, “and they kind of gave the truth.”

The truth, as shown through the general manager’s discussion with agent Ed Berry, is that New York was not willing to offer the same as other franchises in the mix for keeping Saquon.

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“We’re out,” Joe shared.

However, division rival Philadelphia Eagles were willing to do so and signed Saquon to a 3-year, almost 38 million dollar deal that features 26 million dollars guaranteed.

Saquon Barkley on the Hard Knocks experience … whether he felt he was portrayed fairly … if he knew his calls were being recorded … how he felt about what John Mara said about him … and much more. 👇 pic.twitter.com/9VJZKpqcdv

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) July 24, 2024