Brief Introduction of Samaje Perine
Samaje Perine is a distinguished American football running back, renowned for his powerful running style and significant contributions to multiple National Football League (NFL) teams. His professional journey is marked by resilience and consistent performance, making him a respected figure in the league. Perine first captured national attention during his collegiate career at the University of Oklahoma, where he etched his name in the annals of college football history. As a true freshman in 2014, he set the NCAA FBS record for the most rushing yards in a single game with an astounding 427 yards against the Kansas Jayhawks. This remarkable feat was a harbinger of the tenacity and skill he would bring to the professional level. Drafted by the Washington Redskins in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Perine has since played for several franchises, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Miami Dolphins, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield.
Samaje Perine Overview
| Full Name | Samaje Perine |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1995 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 30 |
| Birthplace | Jackson, Alabama |
| Profession | American Football Running Back |
| Husband/Wife | Megan Haney Perine |
| Family | Gloria Perine (Mother) |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | Married |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be in the millions of dollars |
Early Life and Education of Samaje Perine
Samaje Perine was born in Jackson, Alabama, on September 16, 1995. He spent his early years in Alabama before his family relocated to Pflerville, Texas, where he would lay the foundation for his athletic career. In Pflugerville, Perine attended Hendrickson High School, where he became a standout multi-sport athlete, excelling in both football and track and field. On the gridiron, he was a three-year starter for the Hendrickson Hawks, making a significant impact as a running back. His junior year was particularly impressive, as he rushed for 1,993 yards and 16 touchdowns. He followed that up with a solid senior season, accumulating 1,492 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. His prowess on the football field made him a highly sought-after recruit. Perine’s athletic talents were not confined to football; he was also a gifted track and field competitor, participating in sprints and jumps. He demonstrated his explosive power by winning first-place in both the triple jump and long jump at the 2011 Manor Relay. His academic performance was also noteworthy, as he was a straight-A student. After a successful high school career, Perine was rated as a four-star recruit and committed to playing college football at the University of Oklahoma, choosing the Sooners over offers from other powerhouse programs like Alabama, Nebraska, and TCU.
Samaje Perine’s Career
Samaje Perine’s football career is a testament to his power, durability, and adaptability. His journey from a record-breaking college phenom to a reliable NFL veteran has been marked by significant achievements and clutch performances. His collegiate career at the University of Oklahoma was nothing short of legendary. He made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2014, a season highlighted by his record-shattering performance against Kansas, where he rushed for 427 yards, setting a new NCAA FBS single-game record that still stands. He finished his freshman year with 1,713 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns. Perine continued to be a dominant force for the Sooners, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons. By the time he declared for the NFL draft, he had become the University of Oklahoma’s all-time leading rusher with 4,122 yards, surpassing legends like Billy Sims and Adrian Peterson.
Perine’s professional career began when he was selected by the Washington Redskins in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract and showed flashes of his potential during his rookie season, starting eight games and rushing for 603 yards and a touchdown. After two seasons in Washington, Perine’s career saw him move between several teams. He had a brief stint with the Cincinnati Bengals and the Miami Dolphins in 2019 before rejoining the Bengals in 2020. His second stint in Cincinnati proved to be highly productive. He evolved into a key rotational back and a dependable third-down option, known for his pass-blocking and receiving skills. A memorable highlight of his time with the Bengals was his crucial 41-yard touchdown reception in the 2021 AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs, a play that helped spark a comeback and send the Bengals to Super Bowl LVI. In the 2022 season, he stepped up as a starter when Joe Mixon was injured, finishing the year with career highs in receiving yards (287) and receiving touchdowns (four).
In March 2023, Perine signed a two-year contract with the Denver Broncos. During his season in Denver, he continued to showcase his dual-threat capabilities, recording 50 receptions for 455 yards, which ranked among the top running backs in the league. Following his release from the Broncos in August 2024, he was quickly signed by the Kansas City Chiefs for the 2024 season. Most recently, in March 2025, Perine made a celebrated return to the Cincinnati Bengals, signing a two-year contract to begin his third stint with the team that has been so central to his professional career.
Samaje Perine Personal Life & Family
Samaje Perine’s personal life is anchored by his strong family ties and his marriage to his high school sweetheart, Megan Haney Perine. The couple met during their sophomore year of high school and have been together ever since. Perine proposed to Megan in February 2017 in a creatively orchestrated moment involving a magician. They were married in June 2017. Megan is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a degree in finance and accounting and is a passionate baker, running a blog called “Touchdown Kitchen” where she shares recipes and family updates. Together, they have three children: a son named Landyn, born in March 2019, another son named Major, born in February 2021, and a daughter, Aila James, born in March 2023. Perine is known to be a humble and quiet individual. His mother, Gloria Perine, has been a significant influence in his life. The name “Samaje” is a continuation of a family tradition of the name “Sam,” which was held by his grandfather and great-grandfather. While information about his biological father is not public, Perine has spoken highly of his stepfather. He has a cousin, La’Mical Perine, who is also an NFL running back.
Awards and Achievements of Samaje Perine
- NCAA FBS record for most rushing yards in a single game (427 yards)
- University of Oklahoma’s all-time leading rusher (4,122 yards)
- Second-team All-American (2014)
- Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2014)
- First-team All-Big 12 (2014, 2015)
- Second-team All-Big 12 (2016)
- Academic All-Big 12 First Team (2015)
Samaje Perine Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Samaje Perine’s net worth is estimated to be in the millions of dollars, though an exact figure is not publicly available. His primary source of income is his salary from his career in the National Football League. Throughout his time in the NFL, he has signed several contracts with multiple teams. His rookie contract with the Washington Redskins was a four-year, $3.05 million deal. He later signed contracts with the Miami Dolphins, Cincinnati Bengals, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs. His most recent contract, signed in March 2025, is a two-year, $3.6 million deal to return to the Cincinnati Bengals. His career earnings in the NFL through the 2025 season are projected to be over $14 million. His consistent performance and versatility have allowed him to secure these lucrative contracts, contributing to his overall net worth.
Legacy and Influence
Samaje Perine’s legacy is firmly cemented in the record books of college football. His single-game rushing record is a feat of individual brilliance that continues to be a benchmark for running backs. At the University of Oklahoma, he is remembered as one of the greatest running backs in the program’s storied history, having broken the all-time rushing record in just three seasons. In the NFL, Perine has carved out a reputation as a consummate professional and a highly reliable role player. His ability to contribute in various facets of the game—as a powerful runner, a capable receiver, and an excellent pass protector—has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for. His game-changing touchdown in the 2021 AFC Championship Game is a key part of Cincinnati Bengals lore, symbolizing his clutch performance ability. Perine’s quiet, hardworking demeanor and his consistent production have earned him the respect of teammates and coaches throughout the league. He serves as an example of how perseverance and a strong work ethic can lead to a long and successful professional career.
Interesting Facts about Samaje Perine
- He holds the NCAA record for most rushing yards in a single game with 427, a record he set just one week after Melvin Gordon had set the previous record.
- Perine is a wrestling fan and his favorite athlete growing up was Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
- He is known for his incredible strength, having bench-pressed 225 pounds 30 times at the NFL Combine.
- His name, Samaje, is a unique family name created by his mother to incorporate the traditional family name “Sam”.
- During his breakout freshman season at Oklahoma, he earned the nickname “Optimus Perine”.
- He is an avid hunter.
- His cousin, La’Mical Perine, is also an NFL running back.
Controversies
Information not publicly available. Samaje Perine has maintained a low public profile and has not been associated with any significant controversies during his collegiate or professional career.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Information not disclosed
- Twitter – Information not disclosed
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Samaje Perine
Samaje Perine continues to be an impactful player in the National Football League. His return to the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025 has been met with enthusiasm from the fanbase, who remember his crucial contributions to their Super Bowl run. Known for his powerful physique and no-nonsense running style, Perine has proven to be a durable and versatile back throughout his career. His journey is a testament to his dedication and love for the game. From shattering records at the University of Oklahoma to becoming a trusted veteran in the NFL, his career has been one of consistent achievement. As he enters another chapter with a familiar team, his experience and leadership will undoubtedly be a significant asset. Samaje Perine’s legacy is that of a record-breaker, a reliable teammate, and a player who consistently performs when his number is called.
