Report: Texans emerge as Barkley's top destination

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley has targeted the Houston Texans as his top free-agent destination, sources told Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2.

Barkley has been in communication with Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, Wilson reports.

The 27-year-old is slated to be the top free-agent running back this offseason. The class also includes the likes of Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, and Austin Ekeler, among others.

New York franchise tagged Barkley last year but reportedly is not expected to tag him again. However, general manager Joe Schoen didn't rule it out earlier this week.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Barkley would boost a Texans ground attack that failed to produce a 1,000-yard rusher in 2023. Devin Singletary led the team with 898 yards after Dameon Pierce struggled in his second season, averaging just 2.9 yards per carry.

Barkley rushed for 962 yards and totaled 1,242 yards from scrimmage last year. He's one year removed from a career-high 1,312 yards on the ground.