The NFL offseason always sets the table for some complicated decisions.
Teams know they’re not going to be able to pay all their guys, so some of them might walk away.
Notably, that’s the current situation between the New York Giants and star safety Xavier McKinney.
McKinney is looking to get a huge deal in free agency, and there haven’t been many updates, if any, in that regard thus far.
With that in mind, he joined Pat Leonard on the Talkin’ Ball podcast to talk about free agency, his salary thoughts, and his desire to stay in the Big Apple (via NYG Fanin CLT).
“I should be paid as a top five guy, because I am that. I believe in that and the numbers speak for that. But there are other factors,” McKinney said.
Xavier McKinney tells Pat Leonard, “I should be paid as a top five guy, because I am that. I believe in that and the numbers speak for that. But there are other factors…”
I hope they can make a deal. #Giants https://t.co/OTsqPuNPUy pic.twitter.com/vPctaQy759
— NYGfaninCLT (@clt_ny) February 28, 2024
First and foremost, McKinney talked about wanting to play for the same team throughout the course of his entire career, stating that he loves the organization and the city.
Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean he’s going to give the Giants any sort of hometown discount, as he believes he’s a top-five safety in the NFL and should be paid as such.
The Giants are on the clock in this situation.
They could always place him under the franchise tag, although some believe they’re reserving it for RB Saquon Barkley.
As of now, as great as he’s been for the organization, McKinney could be a little too pricey for GM Joe Schoen.
Both parties have reportedly met and talked about a desire to work things out, but that’s going to be easier said than done, as they might not have enough salary cap flexibility to meet his steep demands.
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