It appears that the reported claim regarding the Baltimore Ravens signing the “world’s best running back” to a four-year, $230.8 million deal after turning down a $98.8 million offer from the San Francisco 49ers is unfounded. As of now, there are no verified reports from ESPN or any other reputable sports sources confirming such a transaction.
The Ravens have made significant moves in the running back position over the past year, but none of them involve such an unprecedented contract. In March 2024, the Ravens signed former Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry to a two-year, $16 million contract, which could be worth up to $20 million with incentives. This deal, reported by ESPN and other outlets, was seen as a major boost to Baltimore’s already strong rushing attack, complementing quarterback Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities.
Later, in December 2024, the Ravens made another move by signing Dalvin Cook, a four-time Pro Bowl running back, after his release from the New York Jets. Cook joined the Ravens for their playoff push, further strengthening their depth at the position.
If a running back were to sign a $230.8 million contract, it would shatter all previous records for the position. Historically, running backs have not commanded salaries anywhere near that level. The largest running back contracts in recent history include:
-
Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): 4 years, $64 million (2020)
-
Alvin Kamara (New Orleans Saints): 5 years, $75 million (2020)
-
Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans): 4 years, $50 million (2020)
By contrast, quarterbacks are the players who typically secure contracts exceeding $200 million. For example:
-
Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): 5 years, $260 million (2023)
-
Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): 10 years, $450 million (2020)
-
Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals): 5 years, $275 million (2023)
There have been no credible reports indicating that the San Francisco 49ers offered a running back a $98.8 million deal either. The 49ers already have Christian McCaffrey, one of the league’s best running backs, under contract. Given their salary cap considerations and roster structure, it is highly unlikely they would have pursued another high-priced running back at such an exorbitant cost.
Baltimore’s running back situation for 2025 appears set, with Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook leading the way. The team is focused on making another Super Bowl run, building around Lamar Jackson, their elite defense, and a powerful rushing attack.
In conclusion, the reported $230.8 million deal for a running back does not align with historical NFL contracts, current salary cap realities, or the recent moves made by the Ravens and 49ers. No official sources, including ESPN, NFL Network, or other reputable outlets, have confirmed this claim. Instead, Baltimore’s major running back additions in 2024 were Derrick Henry and Dalvin Cook, both of whom were signed to significantly more modest deals.
