(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – Philadelphia Eagles superstar Saquon Barkley has shattered the running back market by becoming the NFL’s first $20 million-per-year player at his position.
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The historic two-year, $41.2 million extension comes after Barkley delivered a record-breaking 2,500+ yard season and helped bring a Super Bowl championship to Philadelphia in his first year with the team.
The Eagles announced that Barkley’s new deal includes $36 million in guaranteed money with potential for an additional $15 million in bonuses.
This extension firmly establishes the 27-year-old as the highest-paid running back in NFL history, surpassing the previous record set by Christian McCaffrey.
Barkley’s remarkable journey to this payday demonstrates the importance of finding the right team culture.
After being selected second overall by the New York Giants in 2018, Barkley endured years of contract disputes and team dysfunction before signing with Philadelphia last season.
The contrast between Barkley’s success with the Eagles and the Giants’ continued struggles highlights how elite talent can be wasted in poorly managed franchises.
Despite once claiming he wanted to be a “Giant for life,” New York’s front office failed to offer Barkley a competitive contract, allowing their division rival to acquire an NFL Offensive Player of the Year who would help deliver them a championship.
Additionally, the 2024 season showcased Barkley’s exceptional talents as he rushed for 2,005 yards on 345 carries and scored 13 touchdowns on the ground.
He added 33 receptions for 278 yards and two more scores through the air. His combined 2,504 rushing yards across the regular season and playoffs set a new NFL record.
Barkley’s two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Giants pales in comparison to his accomplishments with Philadelphia, where he earned first-team All-Pro honors and was named NFL Offensive Player of the Year.
At the same time, the Eagles’ management demonstrated their commitment to winning by locking down their star running back through the 2027 season.
Their willingness to properly value Barkley’s contributions stands in stark contrast to the organizational dysfunction that continues to plague their division rivals in New York.
While many NFL teams have devalued the running back position in recent years, Philadelphia’s investment shows that exceptional talent and championship production still command premium compensation in professional sports.
For Eagles fans, this extension signals the franchise’s commitment to building on last season’s Super Bowl victory with another championship run.
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