Falcons, Devonta Freeman agree on extension

The Atlanta Falcons just made the explosive running back Devonta Freeman the highest-paid running back in the NFL.

Atlanta extended his contract by five years for $41.25 million in new money, as reported by Michael Silver. Ever since Freeman expressed interest in a new deal a few days before Super Bowl LI, the rumors have been swirling. The deal stalled for a short period, but lately, the rumor mill has been ramping up again. All in all, the deal is not unexpected, according to John Buhler.

If anyone deserves this style of an extension, it is Freeman. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL draft, the explosive dual-threat running back has more than exceeded his value for the Falcons. He has been selected to two Pro Bowls in his short, three-year career.

According to Pro Football Reference, this is not just the result of a popularity contest. Freeman has amassed over 1,000 yards and eleven touchdowns on the ground over the last two years. In the same time span, he has put up over 1,000 yards and five touchdowns through the air.

Overall, he has over 3,175 yards from scrimmage and 27 touchdowns in two years. In playoff games, he averages over 100 all purpose yards and a touchdown per game.

According to Silver, Freeman will be averaging $8.25 million per year over the life of his new contract. The extension itself starts after Freeman’s rookie deal, keeping him with the Falcons through 2022. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport breaks down the contract below.

The Falcons running back now has the highest salary for the 2017 NFL season among running backs, but that could soon change. If LeVeon Bell signs his franchise tag, he will make $12 million this year and will likely be signed to a larger deal after the season.

According to Freeman’s agent Kristin Campbell, this is not on his mind.

"Everybody’s happy. I’m so excited for him. He’s excited to be a Falcon for life. He loves the city. The organization’s been great throughout the process. To have him be the highest-paid back after only three years is a testament to his achievement. Everyone’s thrilled."

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While signing Freeman is a huge part of the offensive plan for the Falcons going forward, a few questions still remain. When will MVP quarterback Matt Ryan, who has two years left on his deal, be extended? What happens to Tevin Coleman, the other explosive running back on the Atlanta Falcons? Will Freeman be a bit more of the focus going forward? We will have to wait and see.