The Atlanta Falcons have already had a busy offseason, largely centered around the status of quarterback Kirk Cousins' bloated contract. They'll potentially be cautious of issuing large-money deals moving forward, which could have significant impacts on future negotiations.
That coincides well with Wednesday's biggest NFL news. Philadelphia Eagles superstar running back Saquon Barkley signed a record two-year, $41.2 million contract extension that will make him the highest -aid player at the position in league history on an annual basis.
Unfortunately for the Falcons, that means Bijan Robinson's eventual asking price just went way up.
Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson seeing the Saquon deal pic.twitter.com/uNyeA2iQlH
— Nolan Bianchi (@nolanbianchi) March 4, 2025
Falcons RB Bijan Robinson's Contract Just Got More Expensive Thanks to Saquon Barkley
Robinson has been one of the league's most electric players since Atlanta selected him with the No. 8 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He earned Pro Bowl honors this year, notching 1,867 yards from scrimmage and 15 TDs as the focal point of the offense.
Once the Falcons get competent quarterback play, Robinson's impact will only grow. Barkley took the Eagles to Super Bowl heights once he escaped the New York Giants, and Robinson can do the same if the right guy is under center.
That's what makes this an interesting time for the Falcons. Robinson has at least three years left on his deal, assuming Atlanta picks up his club option in 2027. Around that time will be when Robinson starts wanting an extension, though, and Barkley's contract will be the first his representation points to unless someone else breaks the market first.
Winning teams don't typically commit huge sums of money to running back, but Barkley spat in the face of the conventional narrative this year. If Michael Penix Jr. turns into the star that fans hope he will, perhaps the Falcons can accomplish the same success.
In the meantime, Robinson should be more motivated than ever to prove he's one of the very best backs in the league.