Quarterbacks:
In the high-stakes world of professional football, quarterbacks command some of the most significant financial commitments from their franchises. Joe Burrow leads the pack with the highest three-year average per year (APY) at $62.9 million. Not far behind is Jared Goff, boasting a three-year APY of $57.3 million, followed by Trevor Lawrence at $55 million.
When we turn our attention to total guaranteed money, Deshaun Watson tops the list with a solid $230 million. Joe Burrow isn’t far behind, securing $219.01 million in guaranteed funds. Patrick Mahomes, despite his accolades and critical role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ success, has $208.1 million in total guaranteed money.
Running Backs:
The lifeline of any offensive play, running backs also attract significant contracts. Christian McCaffrey, known for his versatility and explosive play, leads in financial terms with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. Close on his heels is Jonathan Taylor, who has a three-year APY of $14 million. Alvin Kamara, another key player in any backfield, earns a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers:
Wide receivers are often the stars, making spectacular catches and turning the momentum in tight games. Justin Jefferson ranks the highest with a three-year APY of $35 million and an impressive $110 million guaranteed. A.J. Brown follows with a three-year APY of $32 million and guaranteed money of $84 million. Amon-Ra St. Brown has also secured a lucrative deal, with a three-year APY of $30 million and $77 million in guaranteed funds.
Tight Ends:
Tight ends are no less critical, often acting as both receivers and blockers. Travis Kelce, who has been a key player for the Kansas City Chiefs, boasts a three-year APY of $17.1 million. Meanwhile, T.J. Hockenson has garnered attention with his total guaranteed amount of $42.5 million.
Offensive Linemen:
The unsung heroes who protect quarterbacks and pave the way for running backs, offensive linemen command substantial contracts as well. Penei Sewell is a standout, earning $28 million annually over the next three years and $85 million guaranteed. Chris Lindstrom follows with a three-year APY of $21.8 million, while Frank Ragnow has a comfortable three-year APY of $14 million. Robert Hunt, among guards, has secured the most guaranteed money at $63 million.
Defensive Players:
Cornerbacks:
Jaire Alexander leads with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. On the other hand, Denzel Ward edges out Jalen Ramsey in guaranteed money by a whisker, with $71.25 million versus $71.2 million.
Safeties:
Antoine Winfield Jr. stands out with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guaranteed money. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are also among the high earners in this critical position.
Edge Rushers:
Edge rushers are among the most sought-after defenders, given their game-changing potential. Nick Bosa leads with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and guarantees worth $119.9 million. T.J. Watt is another top earner, boasting a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles:
Chris Jones stands tall with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million guaranteed. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also noteworthy players in this category, although specific contract details aren’t provided.
Off-Ball Linebackers:
In the realm of off-ball linebackers, Roquan Smith headlines with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds have also secured contracts that reflect their value on the field.
Special Teams:
Special teams might not always grab the headlines, but their roles are crucial. Justin Tucker is a standout kicker, earning $6.2 million in three-year APY and holding $17.5 million in guaranteed money. On the punter side, Michael Dickson leads with $3.9 million in APY and $8.5 million guaranteed. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns a respectable $1.67 million in three-year APY.
In summation, the financial landscape of the NFL is as varied as it is lucrative, with key players across different positions securing significant payouts. Whether it’s through APY statistics or total guaranteed money, the contracts reveal a clear picture of how much teams value their players’ contributions on the field.