Saquon Barkley has officially become the highest-paid running back in NFL history after signing a record-breaking two-year, $41.2 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles on March 4, 2025. This deal, which includes $36 million guaranteed and the potential for $15 million more through incentives, reflects Barkley’s outstanding performance during the previous season and cements his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
Just three weeks after leading the Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory since the 2017 season, Barkley signed this lucrative extension, becoming the first running back to earn more than $20 million per year on average. This remarkable accomplishment surpasses the previous standard set by San Francisco's Christian McCaffrey, showcasing the Eagles' commitment to investing in their star players.
The Eagles rewarded Barkley for his phenomenal 2024 season, which saw him rush for 2,005 yards during the regular season and achieve 499 additional yards during playoff games. His total of 2,504 rushing yards between both regular and postseason marks the highest total for any running back yet, breaking the long-standing record of 2,476 yards held by Terrell Davis since 1998.
Barkley’s performance last season also included other impressive milestones. Not only did he break the Eagles’ franchise record for rushing yards in a single season, previously set by LeSean McCoy, but he also set records for rushing yards in both single games and playoff matches. He rushed for 255 yards against the Rams on November 24, eclipsing McCoy’s previous record of 217 yards set back in 2013, and achieved 205 yards during the NFC divisional round, outpacing Steve Van Buren’s playoff record from 1949.
Before this contract extension, Barkley was originally signed to the Eagles on March 4, 2024, with a three-year deal worth $37.8 million. After arriving from the New York Giants—who drafted him second overall in 2018—Barkley's departure from the Giants marked the end of his six-season tenure with the team. His time with the Giants was met with frustrations over contract negotiations, leading to the team utilizing the non-exclusive franchise tag on him, pegging him to $10.1 million, including bonuses.
Upon signing this historic contract extension, Barkley expressed his gratitude on social media, posting only two emojis to symbolize his appreciation for his agent, Ed Berry, and the deal getting finalized. His joy is shared by Eagles fans, who are eagerly awaiting what the reigning NFL Offensive Player of the Year will achieve next season.
This contract extension not only solidifies Barkley’s place as one of the NFL’s elite players but also provides the Eagles with significant roster flexibility. Barkley’s cap hit for the 2025 season has been cut nearly in half from $13.5 million down to $6.8 million due to the new contract, allowing the Eagles to allocate resources effectively to strengthen their team.
Given the tumultuous dynamics surrounding NFL contracts, especially for running backs, this deal is particularly significant. Traditionally, running back contracts are short-lived and often fraught with negotiation hurdles, but Barkley's historic contract signifies changing financial strategies within the league. It reflects how teams may begin to view top-performing running backs not merely as assets but as integral components of championship aspirations.
With his contract secured through at least the 2028 season, Barkley is now part of the foundation of the Eagles' roster, which includes other high-caliber players such as quarterback Jalen Hurts and standout receivers DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown. This continuity is favorable for the team's chemistry and capability moving forward, representing both stability and promise for the upcoming NFL seasons.
Fans can look forward to seeing Barkley continue to showcase his abilities on the field, aiming for more personal achievements, team victories, and perhaps another Super Bowl title wearing Eagles colors. The excitement surrounding Barkley and his pivotal role with the Eagles only solidifies his reputation as one of the league’s most electrifying players, potentially leading to more remarkable records and memorable moments.