Lucrative Contracts in the NFL
In recent years, the NFL has seen an influx of eye-popping contracts, highlighting the league’s financial might and the value of its star players. Here we delve into some of the most lucrative deals inked by NFL players.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 years, $275 million
Signed in 2024, Trevor Lawrence's contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, with $200 million guaranteed, represents a significant commitment. Lawrence’s performance, including leading the Jaguars to an 8-8 record in the 2023 season and throwing for 21 touchdowns—the second-most of his career—showcases his potential. Over the last two seasons, Lawrence amassed over 8,000 passing yards and 55 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, joining the elite company of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jared Goff.
Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: 5 years, $275 million
In 2023, Joe Burrow secured a deal that guarantees him $219 million, ensuring he remains a cornerstone for the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow led the Bengals to an impressive 12-4 record in the 2022-23 season, throwing for 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, passing for 4,475 yards, and completing 68.3% of his passes. These stats underscore his value and the team's confidence in him.
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers: 5 years, $262.5 million
The Los Angeles Chargers secured Justin Herbert in 2023 with a lucrative deal, guaranteeing 83.3% of the total contract value. Herbert, the most successful rookie quarterback in terms of passing yards and completions, led the Chargers to their first playoff appearance in four years. His contract's average annual value of $52.5 million is the highest in NFL history.
Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: 5 years, $260 million
Lamar Jackson's 2023 contract with the Baltimore Ravens includes $185 million guaranteed. This deal, reached after a protracted negotiation period, was handled by Jackson himself. Jackson, who was the second unanimous selection as NFL MVP, has set a precedent for player-led negotiations.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles: 5 years, $255 million
Jalen Hurts' extension in 2023 with the Philadelphia Eagles includes a groundbreaking no-trade clause—the first in the franchise's history. With 70.3% of his $255 million contract guaranteed, Hurts aims to build on his success, which saw him lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl berth.
Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns: 5 years, $230 million
Deshaun Watson's 2022 contract with the Cleveland Browns is notable for its $230 million guarantee. However, Watson's tenure has been marred by controversy. In his first year with the Browns, he faced an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals: 5 years, $189.5 million
Kyler Murray's 2022 deal with the Arizona Cardinals includes an impressive 82.2% in guaranteed money. Despite a solid performance, his season was cut short due to injury, and the Cardinals struggled with a 4-13 record.
Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos: 5 years, $161 million
The Denver Broncos' 2022 contract with Russell Wilson might be considered one of the worst trades and contracts in NFL history based on his performance. Wilson struggled, barely completing 60% of his passes and throwing just 16 touchdowns.
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers: 3 years, $150.8 million
Aaron Rodgers' 2022 contract with the Green Bay Packers, making him one of the highest-paid athletes annually, didn't last long. Following a lackluster season, Rodgers now plays for the New York Jets after a significant trade.
Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: 6 years, $150 million
Josh Allen's extension with the Buffalo Bills, signed in 2021, guarantees him $150 million. Over the past two years, Allen has demonstrated his worth, throwing for over 9,306 yards and 74 touchdowns.
MLB’s Most Valuable Players
Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers: 10 years, $700 million
Shohei Ohtani's 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, signed in 2023, has set a new benchmark in baseball. Despite an elbow injury sidelining him as a pitcher next season, Ohtani aims to make the playoffs for the first time in his career.
Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels: 12 years, $426.5 million
Mike Trout's 2019 deal ensured one of baseball’s best players remained an Angel. Despite injuries, Trout has managed to play 423 games and win the 2019 MVP since signing his contract.
NBA’s Record Contracts
Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics: 5 years, $304 million
Jaylen Brown's 2023 deal stands as the largest in NBA history. Averaging 26.6 points per game, Brown has been pivotal in leading the Celtics to three of the last four Eastern Conference Finals alongside Jayson Tatum.
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets: 5 years, $272 million
Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, signed a max extension with the Denver Nuggets in 2022 worth $272 million, making it the largest contract in NBA history until Brown's record deal.
NHL’s Distinguished Deals
Shea Weber, Nashville Predators: 14 years, $110 million
Shea Weber's 14-year deal signed in 2012 has seen its share of ups and downs. While Weber has been plagued by injuries, it remains uncertain whether he will play in the NHL again.
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins: 12 years, $104.4 million
Sidney Crosby’s 2013 contract ensures the Penguins benefit from his skills until his age-38 season. Despite aging, Crosby continues to perform at a high level.