2018 Draft Analysis: Barkley to New York Giants

With the #2 overall pick, the New York Giants selected Penn State RB Saquon Barkley. In 2017, Barkley was the focal point of a high-octane Penn State offensive attack, with over 1,200 rushing yards rushing, 600 receiving yards, and 23 total touchdowns. Although there were rumors swirling that New York would draft the successor to Eli Manning, they opted for the most talented, “sure thing” player in this year’s draft class.

Barkley will be featured in a run-first offensive scheme in 2018. With his ability to run inside and out of the tackles and contribute to the short passing game, he will be relied on heavily to turn around what was one of the worst offensive units in 2017. The return of Odell Beckham Jr. will require significant attention from defenses, so Barkley will have many opportunities to establish the run in what has the potential to the best RB-WR tandem other than Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown.

Don’t be surprised if Barkley goes in the first round of fantasy drafts this summer and continues to put up huge numbers at the next level. With his projected workload and shear talent, Barkley has elite fantasy running back written all over him and will be a top tier option in 2018.

Edited by Ben Schragger