When the Philadelphia Eagles and Offensive Player of the Year Saquon Barkley agreed on a new two-year contract extension that made the running back the highest paid player at his position, the move was universally celebrated.
After securing the ninth 2,000-yard rushing season in NFL history, Barkley had shown the ability to be one of the greatest running backs in league history. Especially behind Philadelphia's vaunted offensive line.
Not everyone was as excited for Barkley's two-year deal, though.
Speaking on his 'New Heights" podcast with former Eagles star and brother Jason Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce made it clear that he wasn't pleased with the only $36 million in guaranteed money heading Barkley's way.
"Eww," Kelce said in response to the incentive aspect of Barkley's deal. "I don't like that one bit. ... Does he have to get a 2,000-yard season every year?"
Barkley can earn an additional $15 million if he fulfills certain incentives following the team's first 2,000-yard rushing season in franchise history. Barkley also set a new NFL record for total rushing yards recorded in a single season including playoff games.
For his part, Jason did describe how the Eagles normally handled incentives.
"The way I used to be structured, there'd be like playoff incentives, Super Bowl incentives, Pro Bowls, All-Pros," Jason Kelce said. "And then with running backs you usually add in yards."
Travis was not convinced, though. ... wondering specifically about the Pro Bowl vote being part of a contract.
"So you have to rely on someone's vote to get your incentive?" Kelce asked. "That's (expletive) up."
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This story was originally published March 7, 2025 at 3:08 PM.