How Much Does Saquon Barkley Make in the NFL?

By Fan Arch May 01, 2024 20:01

Saquon Barkley, the former Penn State football running back, has made headlines with his lucrative three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Lucrative Deal

On March 13, 2024, it was reported that Saquon Barkley signed a three-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles worth an impressive $37.75 million, with $26 million guaranteed. This significant sum places him among the top earners in the league, reflecting his exceptional talent and value as a running back.

Breakdown of the Contract

Guaranteed and Potential Earnings

The contract's guaranteed amount of $26 million, along with the possibility of earning up to $46.75 million with incentives, demonstrates the faith the Eagles have in Barkley's abilities.

His average yearly salary of $15.833 million is the second highest per-year average by a running back in NFL history.

Annual Salary and Cap Hits

The details of the contract reveal a structured payment plan. In the first year with the Eagles, Barkley's base salary is $1.375 million, with a cap hit of $3,905,882.

In the subsequent year (2025), his base salary rises to $11 million, resulting in a cap hit of $13,575,000. By the third year (2026), Barkley is due a $1 million roster bonus, with a $12 million base salary and a cap hit of $15,575,000.

Implications of the Deal

The contract's structure not only reflects the team's commitment to Barkley but also provides the Eagles with flexibility, as it allows for an out after the 2025 season. However, regardless of the deal's outcome, the Eagles will be accountable for $4,650,000 in dead money in 2027.

Comparisons and Significance

Among Top Running Back Contracts

Barkley's contract places him just behind Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, and Jonathan Taylor for one of the richest current contracts for a running back in the NFL.

Financial Implications and Team Dynamics

The substantial financial commitment to Barkley signifies the impact he is expected to have on the Eagles' offense. Paired with Kenneth Gainwell, Barkley is positioned to be an explosive playmaker in the team's offensive strategies, contributing significantly to the team's performance on the field.

Career and Performance

Statistical Performance

Barkley's impressive career statistics, including 5,211 career yards with 35 touchdowns, underscore his value as a dynamic and versatile player.

Despite injuries impacting his playing time, his on-field contributions have been noteworthy, further justifying the substantial investment made by the Eagles.

Impact on the League

Barkley's contract also reflects the evolving landscape of NFL salaries, particularly for running backs. His earnings stand as a testament to the value placed on top-tier talent and the competitive nature of securing and retaining star players in the league.

Saquon Barkley's multi-million dollar contract with the Philadelphia Eagles has not only set a new standard for running back salaries but also signifies the team's strategic investment in a player of exceptional caliber.

The financial details of his contract, combined with his career performance, position Barkley as a pivotal figure in the NFL, shaping the dynamics of team contracts and player acquisitions.

Barkley's salary in the NFL is not only a reflection of his individual prowess but also a testament to the evolving financial landscape of the league, underscoring the significance of top-tier talent in shaping team strategies and investments.

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