Bijan Robinson becomes highest-paid running back in NFL history

In the United States, Bijan Robinson, running back for the Atlanta Falcons, signed a three-year contract extension worth up to $75 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. Meanwhile, Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions is in a contract standoff, having missed five practices while awaiting a new deal. Gibbs has established himself as a top dual-threat back, ranking third in total scrimmage yards since entering the league in 2023, and faces increased pressure to lead the Lions' offense this season.

Bijan Robinson becomes highest-paid running back in NFL history
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sport Published Aug 4, 2026

Topic overview

In brief

  • Bijan Robinson signed a record-breaking contract extension worth up to $75 million.
  • Jahmyr Gibbs is currently in a contract standoff, missing practices as he awaits a new deal.
  • The outcome of Gibbs' negotiations may be influenced by Robinson's new contract.

Summary

In the United States, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson made headlines by agreeing to a three-year contract extension valued at up to $75 million, which includes $51 million guaranteed. This deal, finalized just over a week into the Falcons' training camp, sets a new record for running backs, surpassing the previous mark held by Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles, who had an annual average salary of $20.6 million. Robinson's new contract averages $22.25 million per year, solidifying his status as the highest-paid running back in the NFL.

As Robinson celebrates his new deal, another prominent running back, Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions, is currently in a standoff regarding his contract. Gibbs has missed five consecutive practices while awaiting a new deal, despite the Lions having exercised his fifth-year option, which keeps him under contract through 2027. Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed his eagerness to have Gibbs back on the field, acknowledging that Robinson's new contract could influence negotiations but emphasizing that the situation will resolve in due time.

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Updated Aug 4, 2026

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