The 2024 NFL season has been tough for New York Giants fans, especially watching former star running back Saquon Barkley shine with rival team Philadelphia Eagles, leading them to Super Bowl 59. While Barkley has moved on, he hasn’t missed the chance to poke fun at his former team, especially regarding their quarterback struggles.
Saquon Barkley’s Playful Jab at the Giants
During Super Bowl Opening Night, soon-to-be free agent quarterback Jameis Winston, who was working as a correspondent for Fox Sports Digital, playfully asked Barkley where he should sign in the offseason. Barkley’s response was both witty and revealing.
“I think New York needs a quarterback right now,” Barkley quipped.
When Winston asked if he meant the Jets or Giants, Barkley clarified, “The Giants.”
While it seemed like light-hearted fun, Barkley’s comment subtly highlighted the Giants’ ongoing quarterback crisis.
Giants’ Quarterback Struggles: A Serious Concern
Barkley’s joke wasn’t entirely off the mark. The Giants have been struggling to find a reliable quarterback since parting ways with Daniel Jones, who had an underwhelming run as the franchise QB. After Jones’ release, the Giants stumbled through a disappointing 3-14 regular season, showing inconsistent performances at the quarterback position.
With the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Giants have a golden opportunity to select a promising young quarterback. However, considering veterans like Jameis Winston could also be a smart move. Winston, known for his strong arm and dynamic playstyle, might offer a short-term solution while the team develops a rookie QB if they choose to draft one.
Barkley’s History of Playful Digs at the Giants
This isn’t the first time Barkley has made light of the Giants’ decisions. After leaving New York, he humorously responded to comments made by Giants owner John Mara. On HBO’s “Hard Knocks: Offseason with the New York Giants,” Mara confessed he’d lose sleep if Barkley joined the Eagles. Barkley cleverly responded in an advertisement for Unisom, a sleep aid, poking fun at Mara’s remarks.
These playful jabs show that while Barkley has moved on professionally, he still enjoys having a little fun at the expense of his former team.
What’s Next for the Giants?
The Giants are at a crossroads. With their current quarterback situation in disarray, they need to make smart decisions this offseason. They have two clear options:
- Draft a Quarterback: With the No. 3 overall pick, they could secure a top quarterback prospect, building for the future.
- Sign a Veteran: Bringing in an experienced player like Jameis Winston could stabilize the offense and mentor a young QB if drafted.
While Barkley’s comment was made in jest, it reflects the real urgency the Giants face. Whether they act on that “advice” or not remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Giants must fix their quarterback issue to turn their fortunes around.
Saquon Barkley’s playful jab at the Giants during Super Bowl Opening Night might have been a joke, but it highlighted a serious problem for New York. With Daniel Jones gone and no clear starter, the Giants must decide whether to draft a new quarterback or sign a veteran like Jameis Winston. Barkley’s comments, while humorous, might carry a hint of truth about what the Giants need to do next.
