For the first time in quite a stretch, it’s a financially beneficial time to be a star running back.
The Brink’s Trucks continue to be backed up this week for star ball carriers, with Jonathan Taylor joining Bijan Robinson after signing a two-year, $44 million extension with the Colts, according to NFL Network.
Taylor’s deal reportedly included $39 million guaranteed and is worth up to $47 million, and is the largest third contract ever received by a running back.
The pact falls short of the three-year, $75 million extension signed by Robinson earlier this week, and sets the table for the expected new deal for Lions star Jahmyr Gibbs.
It’s possible that these deals could be setting up future running backs to be rewarded for their heroics on the field after plenty of consternation regarding the financial value placed on the position.
Taylor, 27, has shown his value throughout his six seasons in the NFL and is coming off a stellar 2025 campaign.
The former Wisconsin star toted the rock a league-high 323 times and scored an NFL-best 18 rushing touchdowns, while tallying 1,585 rushing yards.
Taylor has rushed 626 times for 3,016 yards and 29 rushing scores over the last two years, while adding 64 receptions for 514 yards.
He previously signed a three-year, $42 million deal with the team during the 2023 season that included $26.5 million in guaranteed money.
That extension came amid some drama that spread to the regular season, while this one seems to have come without much drama from the parties.
His $22 million average annual value (AAV) ranks second in the sport behind only Robinson, and he just topped the $20.6 million Saquon Barkley is earning with the Eagles.
With Robinson clocking in at $25 million AAV, Gibbs, the Lions’ star, could try to land in that range in what could a week that changes the future outlook for their fellow running backs.
