The NFL’s most valuable player out of the backfield is now also going to be the highest-paid player at his position in league history. On Monday, the Carolina Panthers signed star running back Christian McCaffrey to a four-year contract extension that will keep him with the organization through the 2025 season.
McCaffrey’s $64-million deal will pay him an average salary of $16 million per year, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history, sources told ESPN.
Still two months shy of his 24th birthday, McCaffrey is coming off a breakout season where he became just the third player in NFL history to reach 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in the same season. He also tied for the league lead in total touchdowns with Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones with 19.
The Stanford product has averaged 4.7 yards per carry and 8.3 yards per reception and has also never missed a game with injury during his three years in the NFL.
And this is why Christian McCaffrey’s contract is coming in where it is. McCaffrey is a running back, a receiver and an overall weapon. https://t.co/BlQdZGWUqj
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 13, 2020
With Cam Newton gone, McCaffrey — who made the Pro Bowl at two positions following last season — is the new face of the franchise in Carolina.
“I’m so excited to continue my career in Carolina,” McCaffrey said in a statement. “I want to thank Mr. Tepper, Marty Hurney, and Coach Rhule for the opportunity to help lead this great franchise, and to all my teammates for their help along the way. And to Panthers fans, KEEP POUNDING!”
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