Contract extension signed by Devonta Freeman
Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman has agreed terms on a lucrative five-year contract extension.
Freeman's new contract will, according to NFL Network's Michael Silver, pay him $41.25m, an average salary higher than any other player in his position.
Only Le'Veon Bell's unsigned $12.1m franchise tag contract would be higher when the Pittsburgh Steelers running back eventually ends his holdout.
Fourth round pick Freeman has scored 27 touchdowns over the last two seasons and, in tandem with Tevin Coleman, gives the Falcons one of the leading running attacks in the NFL.
"Everybody's happy," said Freeman's agent Kristin Campbell.
"I'm so excited for him. He's excited to be a Falcon for life. He loves the city. The organization's been great throughout the process.
"To have him be the highest-paid back after only three years is a testament to his achievement. Everyone's thrilled."
Atlanta lost a dramatic Super Bowl last season and they are 12/1 chances at Sky Bet to lift the Vince Lombardi trophy this time around.
