Barkley remains evasive on Week 1 status: 'We'll see'
Saquon Barkley still isn't ready to comment on his availability ahead of New York Giants training camp.
"I don't know. We'll see," the running back said, according to ESPN's Jordan Raanan. "Taking it day by day. Just listening to my body. Whenever I'm able to get out there, just make sure I'm 110%. Not just for ... my well-being, but just so I go out there and compete at a high level and show the world who Saquon is."
Barkley missed most of the 2020 season after suffering a torn ACL in September. The former Pro Bowler also sustained damage to his MCL and meniscus. Barkley says he's doing "pretty good" in his rehab leading up to training camp at the end of the month.
The 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year is not expected to be a full go when camp begins, a source told ESPN last month.
The 24-year-old led the league with 2,208 scrimmage yards and 15 total touchdowns in his debut year. Barkley followed that up with his second 1,000-yard rushing season, totalling 1,441 scrimmage yards and eight scores in his sophomore campaign.
During the team's minicamp in June, head coach Joe Judge said the franchise would not rush the star tailback onto the field.
As for Barkley, he thinks taking it slow is just fine. "When it comes to rehab, rehab is never a straight line. Just play that by ear. Listen to your body, and whatever your body is telling you, go with that."
The Giants open camp on July 27 as they prepare for their season-opening contest against the Denver Broncos on Sept. 12.