New York Giants’ Saquon Barkley Comes to Defense of Daniel Jones in Controversial Sideline Exchange
The New York Giants have been facing a multitude of challenges this season, including injuries, disappointing performances, and backlash from their frustrated fanbase. As the team’s record has continued to decline at 1-4, much of the criticism has been aimed at quarterback Daniel Jones. However, in a recent incident, star running back Saquon Barkley defended Jones in a heated exchange on the sideline.
After the Giants’ 31-16 loss to the Miami Dolphins, a video surfaced of Barkley passionately confronting a fan near the team’s bench, using profane language to express his displeasure. Barkley later clarified on social media that he was defending Jones from the fan’s derogatory comments. He further explained his actions to reporters, stating, You have a fan just ‘mother-king’ him. That just doesn’t sit well with me. He’s helpless. He can’t do nothing.
Interestingly, Barkley’s defense of Jones stands out because it has been a rare occurrence this season. Jones has faced a challenging season behind an offensive line that has been plagued by injuries. The absence of All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas, who suffered a hamstring injury in Week 1, and starting center John Michael Schmitz has left Jones vulnerable. He has been sacked a staggering 28 times and was even forced to leave the Week 5 game against the Dolphins due to a sixth sack.
The Giants’ offensive line is on pace to allow a whopping 102 sacks this season, which would rival some of the worst performances in NFL history. In fact, the record for most sacks surrendered in a season is held by the 1986 Philadelphia Eagles, who allowed 104 sacks in 16 games.
The negativity surrounding the team has begun to affect the Giants’ locker room. Right tackle Evan Neal, the seventh overall pick in the 2022 draft, had to apologize for his comments disparaging booing fans after the team’s Week 4 loss. Barkley, while understanding the fans’ discontent, draws the line at verbal abuse, especially towards Jones, who led the Giants to their first playoff win since Super Bowl XLVI last season.
That’s not in my makeup, in my character to boo and do stuff like that. But, fans, if you don’t like the product that we’re doing out there — we got to give them a product to be happy about, Barkley said. Go ahead and boo. Or go ahead and cheer. That’s part of the game. But have sympathy at the same time. He’s a human being. Out of all people, it shouldn’t be 8.
Currently, Jones has missed practice on consecutive days due to his neck injury, raising doubts about his availability for Week 6. This leaves veteran backup Tyrod Taylor, a former Buffalo Bills starter, in line to start against his former team. As for Barkley, who has been sidelined for the past three games with a high ankle sprain, questions remain about his return despite his limited participation in practice.
As the Giants strive to improve their performance and win back their disgruntled fans, the team must address their offensive line issues and provide better protection for Jones. It is clear that Barkley stands firmly in support of his quarterback, but whether that support will translate into success on the field remains to be seen. Amidst the challenges and criticisms, the Giants strive to find redemption and restore their promising playoff form of last season.
