Giants' co-owner a 'little nervous' regarding Barkley hype

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has received more hype than most rookies.

Entering his 62nd training camp with the Giants, co-owner John Mara hasn't seen this level of buildup for a first-year player in 37 years.

"Possibly 1981, Lawrence Taylor when he came to camp, but maybe not quite this much (hype)," Mara said, via NFL.com's Kevin Patra. "I mean, (Barkley's) jersey is already the No.1-selling jersey, he's gotten a lot of attention. But again, I think in speaking to him and watching how he conducts himself, I think he is able to handle that, so I feel good about that."

"But still, you know I've used this line a million times before - let's not get him ready for Canton just yet, let's let him play some games first."

In a league that has seemingly devalued the running back position in favor of dynamic passing attacks, Barkley is just the fourth ball carrier to be selected in the top five this decade. His prolific career at Penn State, explosive athleticism, and eye-popping measurables lead to potentially unrealistic expectations for his NFL career.

"He obviously has unlimited physical skills, he's a real fine young man, as well," Mara said. "I think he adds a completely different dimension that maybe we haven't had in our offense in quite some time. I do get a little nervous about all the hype since he hasn't played a down yet, but I think he's capable of living up to it and just is very mature beyond his years, I think. So, we are obviously very excited about him."