Quarterbacks: The Big Earners
When it comes to NFL quarterbacks, the financial rewards are nothing short of spectacular. Topping the charts is Joe Burrow, boasting the highest three-year Average Per Year (APY) at an impressive $62.9 million. Close on his heels is Jared Goff with a three-year APY of $57.3 million, followed by Trevor Lawrence at $55 million. Not to be outdone, Deshaun Watson has secured a staggering $230 million in total guaranteed money. Joe Burrow follows with $219.01 million, while Patrick Mahomes rounds out this elite club with $208.1 million in guaranteed funds.
Running Backs: The Money Movers
Even in a position often seen as less lucrative compared to quarterbacks, running backs can still command eye-popping figures. Christian McCaffrey leads the pack with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and total guaranteed money of $36.3 million. Jonathan Taylor is a solid second with a three-year APY of $14 million, while Alvin Kamara completes the top trio, earning $12.7 million annually over three years.
Wide Receivers: Catching Fortunes
Wide receivers have always been pivotal in the NFL, and their contracts reflect their importance. Justin Jefferson stands out with a three-year APY of $35 million and a substantial $110 million in guaranteed money. A.J. Brown isn't far behind with a three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million in guarantees. Meanwhile, Amon-Ra St. Brown boasts a three-year APY of $30 million and $77 million in guaranteed funds.
Tight Ends: The Silent Earners
Tight ends might not always steal the spotlight, but they certainly make their presence felt financially. Travis Kelce leads with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson also makes a notable mark in the financial arena, with $42.5 million in total guaranteed money.
Offensive Linemen: Protectors Paid Well
Without a strong offensive line, even the most talented quarterback would struggle. Penei Sewell exemplifies the financial rewards of this critical role, earning $28 million annually over the next three years, with $85 million guaranteed. Chris Lindstrom follows with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Frank Ragnow and Robert Hunt are also significant earners, with Ragnow securing a three-year APY of $14 million and Hunt achieving $63 million in guaranteed money.
Defensive Players: Fortifying the Defense
Cornerbacks
Cornerbacks are crucial for any strong defense. Jaire Alexander leads this category with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Meanwhile, Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are neck and neck in guaranteed money, with Ward pocketing $71.25 million and Ramsey $71.2 million.
Safeties
In the safety position, Antoine Winfield Jr. shines, boasting a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guaranteed money. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick also continue to be significant financial figures in this category.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers often redefine games with their on-field prowess. Nick Bosa not only tops the three-year APY list at $34.7 million, but he also possesses a substantial guaranteed amount of $119.9 million. T.J. Watt is also noteworthy, with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Defensive tackles are another cornerstone of any formidable defense. Chris Jones leads with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed funds. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also among the top players in this category, though exact figures for their earnings weren't provided.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith stands out among off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are also key players in terms of financial gain, securing impressive contracts in this position.
Special Teams: Specialists Earning Big
Special teams players might not always steal headlines, but their paychecks are far from modest. Justin Tucker leads kickers with a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Punter Michael Dickson is another high earner with an APY of $3.9 million and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns a respectable $1.67 million in three-year APY.
From quarterbacks to special teams, the financial landscape of the NFL is as varied as it is lucrative. These figures provide a peek into the high stakes and high rewards of professional football, where top talent earns accordingly.