Samaje Perine

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	YPC
Career		119	2,304	12	4.1
2025		15	382	3	4.5
2024		17	92	1	4.6
2023		17

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Bengals secured solid depth at a reasonable price, making Perine's two-year, $3.6M deal ($1.8M AAV) a fair value proposition that earns a C CVI. While Perine falls into the unproven tier production-wise, his salary reflects appropriate backup running back compensation in today's market, avoiding the trap of overpaying for marginal talent at a replaceable position. At 28, he's entering his prime years but without the wear-and-tear of a featured back, potentially offering Cincinnati reliable production as a complementary piece behind Joe Mixon. The contract structure heavily favors the team with minimal guaranteed money ($400K), providing easy exit flexibility while giving Perine a chance to prove his worth over two seasons. This represents the type of shrewd roster building that allows teams to allocate premium dollars elsewhere — Cincinnati gets a capable veteran who can contribute on special teams and provide spelling duties without breaking the bank or creating long-term salary cap complications.

Performance Analysis

Samaje Perine's F grade in Cincinnati is a stark decline for a running back who was once a reliable veteran contributor. Perine showed his value as a receiving back and change-of-pace option in previous seasons, including some clutch performances in the Bengals' playoff run. But the production has completely dried up, and the F grade reflects a player who is no longer contributing at a meaningful level. The Bengals' backfield has evolved, and Perine has been left behind. His best days as an NFL running back are clearly behind him, and the F grade accurately captures where he stands right now. Perine's career has been respectable, but this chapter isn't a good one.