Samaje Perine has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s most resilient and reliable running backs.
Known for his record-breaking college career and his ability to thrive as a versatile weapon in professional backfields, Perine remains a valuable asset in the league as of 2026. After a stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, he has returned to a familiar home with the Cincinnati Bengals, continuing to add to his financial legacy.
In this article, you will know Samaje Perine’s Net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Samaje Perine’s Biography
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Samaje Marquis Perine |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1995 |
| Age | 30 |
| Education | University of Oklahoma |
| Nationality | United States |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) |
| Weight | 240 lbs (109 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2017 (Drafted by Washington) |
| Net Worth | $4 Million – $5 Million (Estimated) |
| Career Earnings | ~$13.9 Million |
| Wife | Megan (Meg) Perine |
| Current Team | Cincinnati Bengals |
Early Career
Samaje Perine’s journey to football stardom began at Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, Texas, where he showcased his blend of power and speed. However, it was his time at the University of Oklahoma that truly put him on the map. As a true freshman in 2014, he delivered one of the greatest performances in college football history.
During a game against Kansas in November 2014, Perine rushed for an NCAA FBS single-game record of 427 yards. This incredible feat broke the record previously held by Melvin Gordon just one week prior.
Perine finished his three-year collegiate career as the Sooners’ all-time leading rusher with 4,122 yards, surpassing the legendary Billy Sims. His dominance at Oklahoma made him a highly anticipated prospect entering the 2017 NFL Draft.
Professional Career
Perine was selected by the Washington Redskins (now Commanders) in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. His rookie season showed promise, as he rushed for over 600 yards, but he eventually saw his role diminish in Washington.
After a brief stint with the Miami Dolphins, Perine found his stride with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. In Cincinnati, he reinvented himself as a clutch third-down back and a reliable pass-catcher, playing a key role in the team’s run to Super Bowl LVI.
His value as a veteran presence led him to sign with the Denver Broncos in 2023, where he posted career highs in receiving yards. He then joined the Kansas City Chiefs for the 2024 season, contributing to their deep playoff run that ended in a Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Following that season, Perine returned to Cincinnati in March 2025, signing a two-year deal to bolster their backfield once again. By January 2026, he remains a key contributor for the Bengals, respected for his pass protection and ability to gain tough yards.
Wife
Samaje Perine is a dedicated family man. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Megan (Meg) Perine (née Haney). The couple has been together since their days as students, with Meg supporting Samaje through his transition from college star to NFL veteran.
They share a life centered around faith and family. While they keep many details of their children private, they have shared glimpses of their family life on social media.
Meg is often seen supporting Samaje at games, and their relationship is considered a grounding force in his life amidst the constant travel and pressure of professional football.
Samaje Perine’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Samaje Perine has an estimated net worth between $4 Million and $5 Million. This figure reflects his accumulated earnings after taxes, agent fees, and living expenses over a nearly decade-long NFL career.
Contract
In March 2025, Perine signed a two-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals worth up to $3.8 million. This deal included a signing bonus and guaranteed money that reflects his value as a veteran leader. The contract runs through the 2026 season, securing his financial future for the immediate term.
Salary
For the 2026 season, Perine is set to earn a base salary and bonuses totaling approximately $1.8 million in cash. This salary is consistent with the market rate for a premium backup running back who offers value in the passing game and special teams.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Earnings (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2017-2019 | Washington/Miami | ~$2.5 Million |
| 2020-2022 | Cincinnati Bengals | ~$3.5 Million |
| 2023 | Denver Broncos | $4.5 Million |
| 2024 | Kansas City Chiefs | $1.5 Million |
| 2025 | Cincinnati Bengals | ~$1.9 Million |
| Total | All Teams | ~$13.9 Million |
Career Stats
| Stat Category | Career Totals (thru 2025) |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 120+ |
| Rushing Yards | 2,200+ |
| Rushing TDs | 10+ |
| Receiving Yards | 1,500+ |
| Receiving TDs | 7+ |
| Average Yards/Carry | 4.2 |
FAQs
1. What NCAA record does Samaje Perine hold?
Samaje Perine holds the NCAA FBS single-game rushing record. He rushed for an incredible 427 yards against the Kansas Jayhawks on November 22, 2014, while playing for the Oklahoma Sooners.
2. Who is Samaje Perine’s wife?
Samaje Perine is married to Megan Perine (formerly Megan Haney). They were high school sweethearts who stayed together through his college career at Oklahoma and his journey in the NFL.
3. Which team does Samaje Perine play?
Samaje Perine plays for the Cincinnati Bengals. He rejoined the team in March 2025 on a two-year contract after playing for the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs.
4. Has Samaje Perine ever won a Super Bowl?
Samaje Perine has not won a Super Bowl ring. He played in Super Bowl LVI with the Bengals (loss to Rams) and was on the Chiefs team that lost Super Bowl LIX to the Eagles.
5. How much has Samaje Perine earned in his NFL career?
Samaje Perine has earned approximately $13.9 million in total salary from his contracts with the Commanders, Dolphins, Bengals, Broncos, and Chiefs.
