NFL

Xavier McKinney gets cryptic on X as Giants uncertainty looms before free agency 

Xavier McKinney posted a curious message Wednesday on X after Tuesday’s NFL deadline for teams to use a tag on players came and went without a move from the Giants.

“Starting to see this life s–t from a birds view..,” the 24-year-old safety shared with his 56,000 followers.

Before Tuesday’s deadline, it was speculated the Giants would apply the transition tag to McKinney, allowing the Giants the right to match any contract offer the two-time captain potentially signs with another team once free agency begins.

Giants safety Xavier McKinney speaks to the media in November 2023. Bill Kostroun for New York Post

Although the Giants refrained from using the tag, The Post’s Paul Schwartz reported Tuesday that negotiations between parties will continue over the next few days of an exclusive rights window and there’s “still a chance” McKinney is back with the team.

Other teams can start negotiating with McKinney on Monday.

In response to McKinney’s cryptic message, fans of other NFL teams made their pitches to the former second-round pick.

“We want you in Chi,” one X user posted.

Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) intercepts a ball against the Eagles in January 2024. Robert Sabo for NY Post
Xavier McKinney walks off the field following a loss to the Eagles in December 2023. Bill Kostroun/New York Post

“Raven Eagle Cardinal Seahawk Start putting your bets in,” another wrote.

McKinney was also urged to stick around by Giants fans.

“Cmon, sign with Big Blue !!!” one X user exclaimed.

Xavier McKinney with running back Saquon Barkley at Giants practice in July 2023. Robert Sabo for NY Post

“Stay in NY please,” another requested.

McKinney began his career with the Giants in 2020, when he was selected 36th overall in the draft, and played every defensive snap last season.

Through 49 games with the Giants, McKinney has nine interceptions.

In a more predictable decision, the Giants also opted not to use the franchise tag on star running back Saquon Barkley for the second straight year.

The Post’s Ryan Dunleavy reported Tuesday that no contract offers were made and no numbers were exchanged by either party in the span of the eight-week negotiation window.

Barkley, the second overall pick by the Giants in the 2018 NFL Draft, is now expected to test free agency for the first time in his career.