Freeman, Falcons to discuss extension

Running back’s agent says he should get large pay bump.

HOUSTON — The Falcons are set to conduct contract extension talks with running back Devonta Freeman this offseason. Freeman, who has been selected to two consecutive Pro Bowls, is seeking an extension with the team.

“Remember, my job is to advocate for my client and I will always advocate for my client,” Kristin D. Campbell, Freeman’s agent, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in a phone interview. “I had a conversation with (general manager) Thomas Dimitroff and we are on the same page. This is something we’ll address in the offseason.”

Freeman, a fourth-round pick in 2014, rushed for 1,056 yards in 2015 and 1,079 last season. He’s also had 22 rushing touchdowns over those two seasons.

He caught 73 passes in 2015 and 54 last season and added five more receiving touchdowns.

Campbell believes that Freeman should be paid like one of the top three running backs in the league.

Minnesota’s Adrian Peterson is the NFL’s top-paid running back with a contract average of $14 million, followed by Kansas City’s Jamaal Charles ($9.05 million) and Buffalo’s LeSean McCoy ($8 million). Freeman’s average is $676,000, which ranks 80th in the league.

“Who was the last running back to go to back-to-back Pro Bowls?” Campbell asked. “Adrian Peterson. Adrian is considered one of the most prolific backs of the past 10 years, wouldn’t you say?

“They don’t give out Pro Bowls. I think they are earned and a player that has earned a spot is considered reputable at his position . ... Fortunately, he’s been a part of this prolific offense that the Falcons have. I think there is an arguable case.”

Freeman discussed his contract situation with NFL media on Monday.

“I’ve got a family to feed and I don’t want to struggle anymore,” Freeman said. “Now, I can see it, feel it, taste it.

“But I’ve got to finish strong and not think about the money this week . We’ve got too much to play for.

“After that, well, I feel like I’ve done my part. Now, hopefully, I’ll get rewarded.”

Freeman is in the third year of a four-year rookie deal worth $2.7 million.

Devonta Freeman is in the third year of a four-year, $2.7M deal.