Quarterbacks
The landscape of NFL quarterback contracts has reached stratospheric heights, with Joe Burrow leading the pack. Burrow boasts the highest three-year average per year (APY) at a staggering $62.9 million. Following him is Jared Goff with a substantial three-year APY of $57.3 million, while Trevor Lawrence rounds out the top three at $55 million. It's not just APY where these quarterbacks are making headlines; total guaranteed money is another financial metric that exemplifies their value. Deshaun Watson has secured $230 million in total guarantees, setting a high bar for financial security. Close on Watson's heels is Joe Burrow with $219.01 million in guaranteed money, followed by Patrick Mahomes at $208.1 million.
Running Backs
While quarterbacks often get the spotlight, running backs also command significant earnings. Christian McCaffrey leads this group with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and a total of $36.3 million in guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor follows with a three-year APY of $14 million, offering exceptional value for his contributions on the field. Alvin Kamara is not far behind, with a three-year APY of $12.7 million, underscoring the premium placed on versatile backs who can impact both the running and passing game.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers are critical to an NFL offense, and their earnings reflect their importance. Justin Jefferson stands at the apex with a three-year APY of $35 million and a jaw-dropping $110 million in guaranteed money. A.J. Brown is next, earning a three-year APY of $32 million and securing $84 million in total guarantees. Meanwhile, Amon-Ra St. Brown earns $30 million annually over the next three years with $77 million guaranteed, showcasing the escalating market value for top-tier receivers.
Tight Ends
Tight ends, often the unsung heroes of an offense, see their compensation rising as well. Travis Kelce leads this group with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. In terms of guaranteed money, T.J. Hockenson stands out with $42.5 million, affirming the value of a reliable tight end who can act as both a blocker and a receiver.
Offensive Linemen
Success in the NFL starts in the trenches, and offensive linemen are handsomely rewarded for protecting franchise quarterbacks. Penei Sewell leads the pack with an astonishing $28 million in annual earnings over the next three years, backed by $85 million in guaranteed money. Chris Lindstrom follows with a three-year APY of $21.8 million, while Frank Ragnow earns $14 million per year. Robert Hunt secures the most guaranteed money among guards at $63 million, proving the financial importance placed on keeping the quarterback upright and opening lanes for the running game.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Elite cornerbacks are pivotal for a strong defense. Jaire Alexander sets the standard with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. In terms of guaranteed funds, Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey lead the way with $71.25 million and $71.2 million respectively, showcasing their roles as shutdown defenders.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. is the top earner among safeties, boasting a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guaranteed money. While not quantified in the rankings, Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are also noted as high earners, underscoring their value in the secondary.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers continue to secure lucrative deals due to their game-changing abilities. 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 closely with a three-year APY of $30.5 million, reflecting the premium placed on generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones sets the bar for defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money. Players like Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also recognized as top-tier talents, though specific financial details are not provided.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith heads the off-ball linebackers list with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are also highlighted for their lucrative contracts, illustrating the financial value placed on versatile, playmaking linebackers.
Special Teams
Even special teams can command significant earnings. Justin Tucker, one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history, earns $6.2 million over a three-year period with $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Among punters, Michael Dickson leads with a $3.9 million APY and $8.5 million guaranteed. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million over the next three years, showing that every position on the field holds financial importance.
In conclusion, NFL contracts continue to rise across all positions, reflecting the immense revenue and competitive nature of the league. From quarterbacks to special teams, the financial figures underscore the value and importance of each player's role on the field.