Free agency has not been kind to running backs in recent years.

Now, Saquon Barkley is set to traverse one of the most challenging financial landscapes those playing his position have ever seen.

The Giants opted not to franchise-tag Barkley before Tuesday’s 4 p.m. deadline, meaning he will hit the open market for the first time after six NFL seasons.

He notably played on the franchise tag last year after failing to come to an agreement on a long-term deal with the Giants, turning down a three-year deal with $22 million-23 million guaranteed, The Post’s Paul Schwartz previously reported.