Former New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley has agreed to a three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, with a maximum value of $46.75 million and $26 million fully guaranteed at signing. That will be included, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Barkley is currently above the franchise tag number and has a maximum average annual salary of $15,833,000, the second-highest salary for a running back in NFL history.
The two-time Pro Bowl running back rushed for 962 yards and six touchdowns for the Giants last season, but missed three games with an ankle sprain in Week 2's win over the Arizona Cardinals.
Barkley, 27, played on an adjusted franchise tag last season and earned $10.1 million after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a long-term contract. Ultimately, the Giants opted against using the tag again this year for $12.1 million, allowing him to become a free agent.
Sources told ESPN that Barkley had repeatedly expressed a desire to be a “Giants for life,” but turned down an offer last season that would have guaranteed him about $23 million.
Barkley said goodbye to Giants fans on social media.
Thank you to everyone who has shown me love and support over the past 6 years… I will be forever grateful! I look forward to the next chapter 💙✌🏾
— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) March 11, 2024
Barkley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, got off to a strong start, totaling a career-high 2,028 yards and earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, but injuries derailed his career. Oops. He has missed at least three games in four of the past five seasons, including most of the 2020 season with a torn ACL.
Barkley threw for 5,211 yards and 35 touchdowns in six seasons with the Giants. He also had 288 receptions, 2,100 yards, and 12 touchdowns.
ESPN's Jordan Raanan contributed to this report.