The Philadelphia Eagles have rewarded running back Saquon Barkley with a two-year contract extension worth $41.2 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.
Barkley’s deal includes $36 million guaranteed at signing and carries an additional $15 million in incentives. The 28-year-old has had one of the best seasons ever by a running back, rushing for 2,504 yards over the regular season and postseason.
The extension comes after Barkley signed a three-year contract with the Eagles last March worth $38 million. The move was seen as a strategic investment to address the underpaid status of running backs in the league.
General manager Howie Roseman acknowledged that salaries at this position were depressed compared to other skill positions, such as wide receivers. However, he believed Barkley would thrive with better complementary players around him, and this deal suggests the Eagles’ confidence in his abilities.
Barkley has been one of the top running backs in the league for seven seasons, accumulating 7,216 yards and 48 touchdowns with the Giants and Eagles. His success has earned him multiple Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, and the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year award this past season.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44109193/sources-eagles-reward-saquon-barkley-412m-extension