Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman had no hesitation in handing Barkley what equates to around $12.6m (£10.2m) a season – the third highest amount for a current running back.

“It was not a hard trigger to pull,” said Roseman. “I’d like to say he’s exceeded expectations, but he’s always been one of the best players I’ve ever seen.

“So I’m really not surprised by any of this, and I don’t say that in an arrogant way, it’s based on who he is, nothing to do with me, because this is who he’s always been. And I’m just glad everyone gets to see that.”

Derrick Henry had another huge season after signing for the Baltimore Ravens as a free agent running back, but does that mean more will follow suit?

Barkley and Henry are generational talents, and Barkley may well go down as one of the best ever once his time in Philadelphia is over.

Running backs are seen as replaceable as many believe they are only as good as the team around them – if their offensive line can open up space for them to run.

True, the Eagles have one of the best in the game, but Barkley finds holes where there are none, and he’s proven that a talent like his deserves to play on a team that can showcase it best.

Running backs may not suddenly become the go-to free agent signing, but Barkley was right to be paid – and on Sunday in New Orleans he could provide that one magical moment that makes all the difference.

If he does, it will be money very, very well spent.