Samaje Perine has established himself as one of the most reliable and versatile backfield contributors in the NFL. Currently in his ninth professional season and serving his third distinct stint with the Cincinnati Bengals, Perine continues to defy the typical aging curve for running backs by providing high-level production in both the rushing and passing games. As of the conclusion of the 2025 regular season, Perine remains a vital component of the Bengals' offensive identity.

For fans and analysts tracking his production, here is the essential data on Samaje Perine’s 2025 performance and his career milestones.

Samaje Perine 2025 Season Stats Summary

The 2025 season saw Perine return to a familiar environment in Cincinnati, where he was utilized as a complementary piece to the starting rotation and a primary option in third-down and "two-minute" situations. Playing in 15 games, Perine demonstrated that his vision and power remain intact.

2025 Rushing Statistics

In 2025, Perine recorded 84 carries for 382 rushing yards, averaging 4.6 yards per attempt. He found the end zone 3 times on the ground, primarily in goal-line sets where his 240-pound frame proved difficult for defenders to stop.

2025 Receiving Statistics

Perine's value as a pass-catcher remained a staple of his game. He hauled in 17 receptions for 87 yards. While his yardage-per-catch was lower than in previous high-volume seasons, his catch rate remained exceptional, providing a reliable safety valve for the quarterback under pressure.

2025 Special Teams Contribution

A surprising late-career development in 2025 was Perine's increased involvement in the return game. He handled 17 kick returns for 430 yards, averaging a healthy 25.3 yards per return. This versatility solidified his roster spot and showcased his north-south running style.

Comprehensive Career NFL Statistics

Over nine seasons in the NFL, Samaje Perine has played for five different franchises: the Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins), Miami Dolphins, Cincinnati Bengals, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs. His longevity is a testament to his high football IQ and physical durability.

Regular Season Career Totals (Through 2025)

Category Career Total
Games Played 125
Rushing Attempts 558
Rushing Yards 2,304
Rushing Touchdowns 12
Yards Per Carry 4.1
Receptions 196
Receiving Yards 1,600
Receiving Touchdowns 7
Total Touchdowns 19

Career Highs and Milestone Seasons

Perine’s statistical peak as a pure runner occurred during his rookie season in 2017 with Washington, where he carried the ball 175 times for 603 yards. However, many analysts argue his most effective seasons came during his second stint with the Bengals (2020–2022). In 2022, he recorded a career-high 38 receptions and 4 receiving touchdowns, proving he was more than just a "bruiser" back.

Samaje Perine Performance by Team

Perine's journey through the league has made him a well-traveled veteran. Each stop has highlighted a different aspect of his statistical profile.

The Washington Years (2017–2018)

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma, Perine was immediately thrust into a heavy workload. His rookie year stats (603 rushing yards) remain his career high for a single season. However, ball security issues and a shifting offensive scheme led to a diminished role in 2018.

The Cincinnati Bengals Stints (2019, 2020–2022, 2025–Present)

Cincinnati has become Perine's professional home. Across his three stints, he has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards and 10+ touchdowns specifically in a Bengals uniform. His 2022 season was particularly notable for his performance in relief of Joe Mixon, including a three-touchdown receiving game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs (2023–2024)

In 2023, Perine signed with the Denver Broncos, where he became a premier receiving back, catching 50 passes for 455 yards—both career highs. He followed this with a one-year stay in Kansas City in 2024, contributing to their championship-caliber offense with 414 total yards from scrimmage.

Situational Stats and Efficiency Metrics

To understand Samaje Perine's value, one must look beyond the box score and into situational efficiency. Perine has consistently ranked as one of the top pass-blocking running backs in the league, a "hidden" stat that keeps him on the field during crucial drives.

Third-Down Conversion Rate

Throughout his career, Perine has been a "chain-mover." In 2025, over 38% of his rushing attempts resulted in a first down. His ability to identify blitz pickups and transition into a short-area receiver makes him a favorite for offensive coordinators in 3rd-and-medium situations.

Red Zone Efficiency

With a BMI that ranks in the upper percentiles for NFL backs, Perine is a specialist in "heavy" personnel packages. His career average of 4.1 yards per carry actually increases to 4.5 in the 2025 season, suggesting that he has become more efficient at picking his lanes as he has gained veteran experience.

College Legacy: The Oklahoma Sooners Record

Any discussion of Samaje Perine’s stats would be incomplete without mentioning his legendary collegiate career at the University of Oklahoma (2014–2016).

Perine holds the NCAA FBS record for the most rushing yards in a single game. On November 22, 2014, as a true freshman, he rushed for 427 yards against the University of Kansas, surpassing the record set just one week prior by Melvin Gordon.

He finished his three-year college career as Oklahoma’s all-time leading rusher with 4,122 yards, surpassing the legendary Billy Sims. This foundation of high-volume production and durability set the stage for his successful, decade-long transition to the professional ranks.

What is Samaje Perine's Fantasy Football Value?

For fantasy football managers, Perine has evolved from a "handcuff" option to a viable "Flex" play in PPR (Point Per Reception) leagues.

  1. PPR Upside: His history of 40+ reception seasons (2023) makes him valuable even when he isn't the primary rusher.
  2. Reliability: Perine rarely misses games due to injury, appearing in 17 games in both 2023 and 2024.
  3. Touchdown Potential: In the Bengals' high-powered offense, Perine often finds himself in the game during goal-to-go situations, providing "vulture" touchdown potential.

Summary of Career Impact

Samaje Perine's statistical profile is a blueprint for the modern "B-side" running back. While he hasn't been a perennial 1,000-yard rusher, his aggregate impact across rushing, receiving, and pass protection has allowed him to maintain a 125-game career. His return to Cincinnati in 2025 has once again proven that his "hard-nosed" style and dual-threat capability are timeless assets in the NFL.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Samaje Perine’s career-high rushing yards in a single game?

In the NFL, Perine's career-high is 117 yards, achieved during his rookie season with Washington against the New Orleans Saints. In college, he holds the NCAA record with 427 yards in a single game.

Which team has Samaje Perine played for the most?

Perine has spent the majority of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals. He has had three separate stints with the team (2019, 2020–2022, and 2025–present).

How many touchdowns does Samaje Perine have in total?

As of the end of the 2025 season, Samaje Perine has scored 19 total touchdowns in the NFL regular season (12 rushing and 7 receiving).

What are Samaje Perine's physical measurements?

Samaje Perine stands 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs approximately 240 pounds. This build allows him to excel in power-running and pass-protection roles.

Is Samaje Perine still playing in 2026?

According to his contract signed in March 2025, Perine is under contract with the Cincinnati Bengals through the 2026 season.