In the world of professional football, players' contracts can often capture as much attention as their performances on the field. This deep dive explores the top earners in the NFL across various positions based on their three-year average per year (APY) earnings and guaranteed money.
Quarterbacks
Leading the pack is Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals' sensation, who boasts the highest three-year APY at a staggering $62.9 million. Not far behind him is Jared Goff, with a solid $57.3 million three-year APY, proving his worth to the Detroit Lions. Meanwhile, Jacksonville Jaguars' up-and-coming star, Trevor Lawrence, secures a three-year APY of $55 million.
When it comes to guaranteed money, Deshaun Watson is king, with a monumental $230 million in total guaranteed funds. Joe Burrow follows with $219.01 million, while Patrick Mahomes rounds out the top tier with $208.1 million in guaranteed money.
Running Backs
Christian McCaffrey leads the running backs with an impressive three-year APY of $17.2 million, also securing $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor trails McCaffrey with a three-year APY of $14 million, while Alvin Kamara comes in third with a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers
Among wide receivers, Justin Jefferson stands out with a three-year APY of $35 million and total guaranteed money of $110 million. A.J. Brown, with a three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million guaranteed, showcases his value as a top target. Amon-Ra St. Brown also proves his worth, achieving a three-year APY of $30 million and securing $77 million in guaranteed money.
Tight Ends
The tight end position sees Travis Kelce leading with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson is another significant earner, commanding $42.5 million in total guaranteed money.
Offensive Linemen
Penei Sewell is a standout among offensive linemen, earning $28 million annually over the next three years, with guaranteed funds amounting to $85 million. Chris Lindstrom, with his three-year APY of $21.8 million, and Frank Ragnow, with a three-year APY of $14 million, also figure prominently. Robert Hunt, however, has secured the most guaranteed money among guards at $63 million.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Jaire Alexander leads the charge among cornerbacks with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey receive significant guaranteed funds at $71.25 million and $71.2 million, respectively.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. stands out with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and total guaranteed money of $45 million. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick also command high earnings, showcasing their critical roles on their respective teams.
Edge Rushers
Nick Bosa dominates as an edge rusher with an impressive three-year APY of $34.7 million and guaranteed money totaling $119.9 million. T.J. Watt also secures a lucrative contract with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones is a top earner among defensive tackles, with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and a substantial $101 million in guaranteed funds. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also recognized as elite players in this category.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith leads off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Contracts of Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds surpass expectations, further highlighting their invaluable contributions.
Special Teams
In the realm of special teams, Justin Tucker is the highest earner among kickers with a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed funds. Michael Dickson leads the punters with a $3.9 million APY and $8.5 million in guaranteed money. Luke Rhodes stands out among long snappers, earning $1.67 million over the next three years.
As contracts evolve and players continue to prove their worth, these numbers serve as a testament to the skill, dedication, and financial acumen required to succeed at the highest levels of professional football.