The Financial Landscape of NFL Stars: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and More
Quarterbacks
When it comes to the highest earners in the NFL, quarterbacks invariably lead the pack. Joe Burrow stands at the pinnacle with an impressive three-year Average Per Year (APY) of $62.9 million. Burrow's financial success is further highlighted by his total guaranteed money amounting to a staggering $219.01 million.
Jared Goff follows closely behind Burrow, boasting a three-year APY of $57.3 million. Another young and emerging star, Trevor Lawrence, earns $55 million in the same period.
Deshaun Watson, despite various controversies, has secured $230 million in total guaranteed money, making him one of the highest-guaranteed players in NFL history. Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes, often considered the face of the NFL, has a total of $208.1 million in guaranteed money, underscoring his value to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Running Backs
Running backs may not earn as much as the signal-callers, but their contributions are equally vital. Christian McCaffrey leads the pack with a three-year APY of $17.2 million, with $36.3 million in total guaranteed money.
Jonathan Taylor follows McCaffrey with a three-year APY of $14 million. Alvin Kamara, known for his versatility and explosive play, clocks in with a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver position has seen a surge in value recently. Justin Jefferson tops the list with a three-year APY of $35 million and a total guaranteed money of $110 million. He is closely trailed by A.J. Brown, who earns $32 million in APY and has $84 million in guaranteed money.
Amon-Ra St. Brown, another rising star, has a three-year APY of $30 million, accompanied by $77 million in total guaranteed money.
Tight Ends
Tight ends are an integral part of any offense, and their contracts reflect that. Travis Kelce leads the position with a three-year APY of $17.1 million.
T.J. Hockenson, while not leading in APY, has a significant sum of $42.5 million in total guaranteed money.
Offensive Linemen
In the trenches, offensive linemen command hefty salaries for protecting the quarterback. Penei Sewell is the top earner among this group, 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. Robert Hunt stands out among guards with the highest guaranteed money at $63 million.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Jaire Alexander is the top earner among cornerbacks with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey both have extremely lucrative deals, with guaranteed money of $71.25 million and $71.2 million, respectively.
Safeties
Among safeties, Antoine Winfield Jr. leads with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in guaranteed money. High earners like Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick also solidify the importance of this position in modern NFL defenses.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers are key to disrupting the opposition's offensive schemes. Nick Bosa commands a three-year APY of $34.7 million, with $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt follows suit with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones leads defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money. Other marquee names like Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins also secure their status as top players in the league.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith is a standout among off-ball linebackers, boasting a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds also secure significant contracts, affirming their value to their respective teams.
Special Teams
Even in the often-overlooked realm of special teams, players are increasingly recognized for their contributions. Justin Tucker, renowned for his accuracy, earns a three-year APY of $6.2 million, with a guaranteed amount of $17.5 million.
Punter Michael Dickson leads with a three-year APY of $3.9 million and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds. Long snapper Luke Rhodes rounds out the special teams category, earning $1.67 million in three-year APY.
In conclusion, the financial landscape of the NFL is diverse, with hefty contracts across various positions. While quarterbacks dominate the headlines with their colossal earnings, other positions are proving their worth with substantial contracts, reflecting their importance on the gridiron.