The Philadelphia Eagles have secured a major victory in player negotiations, announcing a two-year contract extension with superstar running back Saquon Barkley worth $41.2 million. This landmark deal establishes Barkley as the first running back in NFL history to surpass the $20 million annual salary threshold, a significant milestone in the league.
Barkley, who recently celebrated his 28th birthday with a Super Bowl championship victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, wrapped up an exceptional season as the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. The new contract extends his tenure with the Eagles through the 2028 season and includes $36 million guaranteed, along with an additional $15 million in performance incentives. This guaranteed amount stands as the highest for a running back under a contract lasting three years or less.
Previously, Barkley was earning approximately $12.6 million annually under a three-year contract that he signed during last offseason, which totaled a base value of $37.75 million, including $26 million guaranteed plus incentives.
In the 2024 season, Barkley made a strong impression by leading the league with 345 carries, amassing 2,005 rushing yards and an impressive average of 125.3 yards per game, scoring 13 touchdowns along the way. He also contributed significantly in the passing game, recording 33 receptions for 278 yards and two additional touchdowns.
During the postseason, Barkley continued to shine, rushing 91 times for 499 yards and five touchdowns across four playoff games, setting a single-season record of 2,504 total rushing yards—eclipsing the previous mark held by Terrell Davis.
Throughout his career, Barkley has demonstrated exceptional prowess, with a total of 1,546 rushing attempts resulting in 7,216 yards and 48 touchdowns, along with 321 receptions for 2,378 yards and 14 scores across 90 regular-season games played for both the New York Giants and the Eagles. Barkley was originally selected second overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, proving to be a franchise cornerstone for both teams.
