In the world of professional football, contracts are a significant indicator of player value and team priorities. This article delves into the top earners across various positions, breaking down the financial landscape of the NFL and highlighting key players who have secured lucrative deals over the next three years.
Quarterbacks
Quarterbacks, often the team leaders, command some of the highest salaries in the league. Joe Burrow tops the list with an astounding three-year average per year (APY) of $62.9 million. Following him is Jared Goff with a three-year APY of $57.3 million, and Trevor Lawrence at $55 million.
When it comes to guaranteed money, Deshaun Watson leads with a staggering $230 million. Joe Burrow follows with $219.01 million in guaranteed money, while Patrick Mahomes secures $208.1 million.
Running Backs
Among running backs, Christian McCaffrey stands at the pinnacle with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor and Alvin Kamara follow with three-year APYs of $14 million and $12.7 million, respectively.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers are becoming increasingly valuable in the modern NFL. Justin Jefferson leads the pack with a three-year APY of $35 million and $110 million in total guaranteed money. A.J. Brown and Amon-Ra St. Brown follow with three-year APYs of $32 million and $30 million, respectively. Brown's guaranteed money stands at $84 million, while St. Brown secures $77 million.
Tight Ends
Tight ends play crucial roles in both the passing and running games. Travis Kelce boasts a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson has secured $42.5 million in total guaranteed money, highlighting his value to his team.
Offensive Linemen
Offensive linemen protect the quarterback and create running lanes, making their roles vital. Penei Sewell stands out with an annual earning of $28 million over the next three years and $85 million in guaranteed money. Chris Lindstrom follows with a three-year APY of $21.8 million, and Frank Ragnow has a three-year APY of $14 million. Notably, Robert Hunt has the most guaranteed money among guards at $63 million.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
In the defensive backfield, Jaire Alexander leads with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey both have substantial guaranteed amounts, with $71.25 million and $71.2 million, respectively.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. is a top earner among safeties with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guaranteed money. Other high earners include Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick, whose exact figures underline their elite status.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers, who are crucial for disrupting the passing game, are handsomely paid. Nick Bosa leads this group with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt follows with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Interior defensive linemen like Chris Jones and Aaron Donald are critical in stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Jones has a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money, making him one of the highest-paid players at his position. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also top performers in this category.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith leads the off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Other notable contracts in this category belong to Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds, who have secured substantial deals reflective of their on-field impact.
Special Teams
Special teams players, often the unsung heroes, also command competitive salaries. Kicker Justin Tucker leads with a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Michael Dickson tops the punter list with a $3.9 million APY, accompanied by $8.5 million in guaranteed funds. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, rounding out the critical yet often overlooked special teams unit.
In summary, these figures underscore the financial commitments NFL teams make to secure top talent. From quarterbacks to special teams, players across all positions have negotiated contracts that reflect their value and importance to their respective teams. As the league continues to evolve, these salaries highlight the premium placed on elite performance and the financial stakes of professional football.