Quarterbacks
The quarterback position has seen some astronomical contracts, reflecting the paramount importance of the role in modern football. Leading the pack is Joe Burrow, who boasts a staggering three-year average per year (APY) of $62.9 million. Close behind him is Jared Goff, with a three-year APY of $57.3 million. Trevor Lawrence also represents heavily compensated quarterbacks with an APY of $55 million over the next three years.
Deshaun Watson, however, wins the race in terms of total guaranteed money, having secured a whopping $230 million. Joe Burrow follows with $219.01 million in guarantees, while Patrick Mahomes is guaranteed $208.1 million. These figures underscore the heavy financial investments made in securing franchise-quarterbacks for the long term.
Running Backs
The running back market is significantly lower in value compared to quarterbacks, yet remains lucrative for its top talents. Christian McCaffrey leads with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and a total of $36.3 million in guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor is not far behind, earning $14 million annually over these three years. Alvin Kamara's contract affords him a three-year APY of $12.7 million, placing him among the elite earners at the position.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers have also seen massive payouts recently. Justin Jefferson tops the charts with a three-year APY of $35 million and a substantial $110 million in guaranteed money. A.J. Brown garners a three-year APY of $32 million and has secured $84 million in guarantees. Similarly, Amon-Ra St. Brown's current contract features a three-year APY of $30 million with $77 million in guaranteed money. These figures reveal the critical importance of elite receiver talent in a pass-heavy league.
Tight Ends
Travis Kelce leads the tight end group with a three-year APY of $17.1 million, underscoring his value in a high-octane offense. T.J. Hockenson, though not leading in APY, has a substantial total of $42.5 million in guaranteed money, a testament to his pivotal role in the offense.
Offensive Linemen
Protecting the quarterback is a high-stakes job, and offensive linemen have been compensated accordingly. Penei Sewell stands out with an annual APY of $28 million over the next three years and $85 million guaranteed. Chris Lindstrom and Frank Ragnow follow, with three-year APYs of $21.8 million and $14 million, respectively. Among guards, Robert Hunt takes the lead with $63 million in guaranteed money, reflecting the premium placed on solidifying the offensive front.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
The role of cornerbacks in shutting down opposing pass attacks has become ever more crucial. Jaire Alexander stands at the forefront with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey have secured similar amounts of guaranteed money, with Ward at $71.25 million and Ramsey at $71.2 million, highlighting their value in defensive schemes.
Safeties
Among safeties, Antoine Winfield Jr. leads with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guarantees. Though specific figures aren’t provided, both Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are recognized as high earners in the league.
Edge Rushers
The edge rusher position is synonymous with high payouts, given their ability to disrupt offenses. Nick Bosa leads with a staggering $34.7 million three-year APY and $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt follows with a three-year APY of $30.5 million, affirming their critical roles in defensive success.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones tops the list among defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million guaranteed. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also noted as top players in this category, emphasizing the significance of interior disruption.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith secures a substantial contract with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million guaranteed. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are also highlighted as players who have secured surpassing contracts, reflecting their versatility and impact on the field.
Special Teams
Special teams players, though often overlooked, also earn significant contracts. Justin Tucker, a top kicker, earns $6.2 million in three-year APY with $17.5 million guaranteed. Michael Dickson leads among punters with a $3.9 million APY and $8.5 million in guarantees. Among long snappers, Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, showcasing the varied but significant investments across special teams.