Back up the Brinks truck for Christian McCaffrey as the Carolina Panthers running back has signed a four-year extension worth $64 million.
The new deal will average out to $16 million per year, making him the highest-paid running back in the history of the NFL, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports.
“I’m so excited to continue my career in Carolina,” McCaffrey said. “I want to thank Mr. [David] Tepper, Marty Hurney, and Coach [Matt] 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!”
Christian is now under contract through the 2025 season. The 23-year-old running back has a fifth-year option. Including the remaining years on his rookie deal, McCaffrey is set to collect around $75 million over the next six years.
Prior to this deal Ezekiel Elliott of the Dallas Cowboys was the highest-paid at $15 million per year. Le’Veon Bell is right behind him at 14.1 million a year.
Last year, McCaffrey was named All-Pro and put up 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving in the same season. The only other players to do that in history are Marshall Faulk and Roger Craig.
Next year’s Panthers offense will now be led by McCaffrey and new quarterback Teddy Bridgewater who will replace the longtime starter and former league MVP, Cam Newton.