Quarterbacks: The Big Earners
In the high-stakes world of NFL quarterbacks, big contracts are the norm for standout players. Leading the pack, Joe Burrow boasts the highest three-year average per year (APY) at an impressive $62.9 million. Following closely, Jared Goff garners a three-year APY of $57.3 million, while Trevor Lawrence earns $55 million in the same period.
Comparing total guarantees, Deshaun Watson stands out with a staggering $230 million in guaranteed money. Hot on his heels, Joe Burrow has a total guaranteed sum of $219.01 million, and Patrick Mahomes rounds off the top three with $208.1 million.
Running Backs: Crucial Yet Underappreciated
Christian McCaffrey is the top earner among running backs, with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and $36.3 million in guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor follows with a three-year APY of $14 million, while Alvin Kamara earns $12.7 million annually over the next three years.
Wide Receivers: The High Flyers
Wide receivers continue to command hefty paychecks, with Justin Jefferson leading the way at a three-year APY of $35 million and $110 million in total guaranteed money. Close behind, A.J. Brown pulls in a three-year APY of $32 million, backed by $84 million in guarantees. Amon-Ra St. Brown also secures a lucrative deal, with a three-year APY of $30 million and $77 million guaranteed.
Tight Ends: Versatile Playmakers
Tight ends, although fewer in number, also draw significant salaries. Travis Kelce tops the list here with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson follows with a noteworthy $42.5 million in total guaranteed money.
Offensive Linemen: The Unsung Heroes
Offensive linemen, the backbone of any football team, earn their fair share. Penei Sewell leads with an impressive $28 million annual salary over the next three years, supported by $85 million in guaranteed funds. Following him, Chris Lindstrom earns a three-year APY of $21.8 million, and Frank Ragnow makes $14 million. Among guards, Robert Hunt stands out with $63 million guaranteed.
Defensive Players: The Fortress Builders
Cornerbacks
Among cornerbacks, Jaire Alexander boasts a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are closely matched, with $71.25 million and $71.2 million in guaranteed money, respectively.
Safeties
In the realm of safeties, Antoine Winfield Jr. earns a three-year APY of $21.03 million and holds $45 million in guaranteed money. Highly-paid safeties also include Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick, although specific details of their contracts were not specified.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers often secure some of the most lucrative deals in defense. Nick Bosa tops this group with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and $119.9 million guaranteed. T.J. Watt follows closely with an annual three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Defensive tackles, the powerhouses of defense, are well-compensated for their vital role. Chris Jones leads with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also noted as top players, although their specific earnings were not disclosed.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Off-ball linebackers can also command substantial contracts. Roquan Smith earns a three-year APY of $20 million, backed by $60 million in guarantees. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds also secure surpassing contracts, highlighting their value to their respective teams.
Special Teams: The Specialists
Special teams players, though often overlooked, are essential to the game’s finer points. Kicker Justin Tucker leads with a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Punter Michael Dickson follows with $3.9 million in APY and $8.5 million in guarantees. Long snapper Luke Rhodes rounds out the list with a three-year APY of $1.67 million.
In conclusion, the financial landscape of the NFL is a testament to the league’s lucrative nature and the substantial value placed on its key players. The aforementioned contracts not only highlight the star athletes but also emphasize the intricate dynamics of team-building and player valuation. As the league continues to evolve, so too will the staggering numbers associated with its top performers.