Quarterbacks
In the high-stakes world of professional football, quarterbacks often command the most attention—and the largest contracts. Leading the pack, Joe Burrow boasts the highest three-year average per year (APY) at an impressive $62.9 million. Close behind, Jared Goff garners $57.3 million in three-year APY, underscoring his value as a premier quarterback. Trevor Lawrence rounds out the top three with a commendable $55 million in three-year APY.
When it comes to guaranteed money, Deshaun Watson leads the field by securing a staggering $230 million. Though just shy of Watson's figure, Joe Burrow is also well-compensated with $219.01 million guaranteed. Not to be overlooked, Patrick Mahomes has secured a robust $208.1 million in guaranteed funds.
Running Backs
The financial landscape is equally competitive among running backs. Christian McCaffrey stands at the pinnacle with a three-year APY of $17.2 million. He has also secured $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor follows with a three-year APY of $14 million, demonstrating his rising value in the league. Alvin Kamara, another top-tier talent, enjoys a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers are vital offensive weapons, and their contracts reflect their importance. Justin Jefferson leads with a three-year APY of $35 million and has $110 million in total guaranteed money, making him one of the highest earners in his position. A.J. Brown secures a three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million in total guaranteed money, followed by Amon-Ra St. Brown with a three-year APY of $30 million and $77 million guaranteed.
Tight Ends
The tight end position also features lucrative contracts. Travis Kelce commands a three-year APY of $17.1 million, underscoring his status as a premier player at his position. Meanwhile, T.J. Hockenson boasts a significant total guaranteed amount of $42.5 million.
Offensive Linemen
The offensive line remains crucial for team success, and elite players are duly compensated. Penei Sewell highlights this with an annual earning of $28 million over the next three years and $85 million in guaranteed money. Chris Lindstrom follows with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Frank Ragnow, with a three-year APY of $14 million, and Robert Hunt, who has $63 million in guaranteed money, further illustrate the lucrative contracts available to top linemen.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Cornerbacks are essential to any successful defense, and their contracts reflect their importance. Jaire Alexander secures a three-year APY of $21.8 million, marking him as one of the highest-paid at his position. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are close competitors, with guaranteed amounts of $71.25 million and $71.2 million, respectively.
Safeties
Among safeties, Antoine Winfield Jr. emerges as a standout with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in guaranteed money. Other high earners include Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick, signaling their significant contributions to their respective teams.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers are vital for putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and their contracts reflect their critical role. Nick Bosa leads with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt trails slightly with a three-year APY of $30.5 million, showcasing the high stakes and financial rewards of this position.
Defensive Tackles
Defensive tackles also command top contracts. Chris Jones earns a three-year APY of $31.7 million and has $101 million guaranteed, establishing him as a top earner. Other standout players include Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins, who both have highly lucrative contracts.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Off-ball linebackers play a unique and vital role in the defense. Roquan Smith leads this group with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are other high earners in this category, each securing contracts that reflect their value to their teams.
Special Teams
Special teams players are often overlooked in the financial discussions, but they too can secure impressive contracts. Justin Tucker, a premier kicker, earns a three-year APY of $6.2 million with $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Michael Dickson leads punters with $3.9 million in APY and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds, while Luke Rhodes, a standout long snapper, earns $1.67 million in three-year APY.
In summary, the financial landscape of professional football is complex and varied. From quarterbacks to special teams players, the contracts reflect their value and impact on the game. As the league continues to evolve, these numbers will undoubtedly grow, further highlighting the lucrative nature of professional football.