Freeman gets $41.25 million
ATLANTA — On the eve of their first preseason game, the Atlanta Falcons addressed their biggest issue coming into training camp.
Devonta Freeman has a new contract.
The defending NFC champions agreed to terms Wednesday on a five-year, $41.25 million extension with Freeman, making him the highest-paid running back in the league in terms of the overall package. It includes a $15 million signing bonus and $22 million in guaranteed money.
Buffalo’s LeSean McCoy had been the highest-paid back with a five-year, $40 million deal signed in 2015. Pittsburgh’s Le’veon Bell’s rejected an even bigger deal and will play for $12.12 million franchise tag this season.
During his three seasons with the Falcons, Freeman has racked up 2,383 rushing yards, including back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons in 2015 and 2016. His 3,175 total yards over the past two seasons ranks second in the NFL, behind teammate Julio Jones.
Freeman will make just under $1.8 million in the final year of a rookie contract he signed as a fourth-round draft pick out of Florida State. Hemade it clear that holding out was not an option.
