(TheRedAlertNews.com) – In a groundbreaking move, Saquon Barkley has become the highest-paid running back in National Football League (NFL) history, signing a two-year, $41.2 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles.
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His record-breaking deal rewards hard work and exceptional performance, and it was signed after the New York Giants failed to value their former star properly.
The contrast between Barkley’s Super Bowl success in Philadelphia and New York’s continued struggles speaks volumes about loyalty in professional sports.
The Eagles made headlines by announcing Barkley will become the NFL’s first $20 million-per-year running back.
His two-year, $41.2 million extension includes $36 million in guaranteed money with potential for an additional $15 million in bonuses.
After the Giants selected him second overall in 2018 and made him a two-time Pro Bowler, New York failed to offer him a competitive contract.
The Eagles pounced on this opportunity last year, signing Barkley to a deal that this massive extension has now superseded.
The return on investment for Philadelphia has been nothing short of spectacular. In his first season with the Eagles, Barkley achieved a rare 2,000-yard rushing season with 2,005 yards on 345 carries and 13 rushing touchdowns.
He added 33 receptions for 278 yards and two more scores. Most importantly, he helped lead the Eagles to victory in Super Bowl LIX, vindicating his decision to leave New York.
The Giants’ loss became the Eagles’ gain dramatically. Barkley posted an NFL record of 2,504 rushing yards over the regular season and playoffs combined.
His standout performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors and the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.
What makes this story particularly interesting is Barkley’s previous statement that he wanted to be a “Giant for life.”
When New York failed to value his contributions properly, he maintained his professionalism while letting his on-field performance speak for itself.
Barkley’s extension follows a trend started by Christian McCaffrey, who also reset the running back market with his high-value contract.
The Eagles’ commitment to Barkley demonstrates their recognition of genuine talent and dedication to building a championship-caliber team.
It also shows that in today’s NFL, elite players who deliver championships deserve to be compensated accordingly, regardless of position.
While running backs have often been undervalued in recent years, Barkley’s historic contract proves that exceptional performance still commands exceptional pay.
BREAKING: Saquon Barkley and the Eagles have agreed to a two-year, $41.2M contract extension that makes him the highest-paid running back in NFL history, per @AdamSchefter. pic.twitter.com/EZyT4W8tez
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) March 4, 2025
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