Quarterbacks
Quarterbacks are the centerpiece of any NFL team, often commanding the highest salaries in the league. Joe Burrow tops the list with an impressive three-year Average Per Year (APY) of $62.9 million. Not far behind is Jared Goff, who commands a three-year APY of $57.3 million. Trevor Lawrence rounds out this elite group with a three-year APY of $55 million.
Total guaranteed money is another critical aspect of player contracts. Deshaun Watson secured an astounding $230 million in guaranteed money, setting a high benchmark for others. Joe Burrow follows with $219.01 million in guarantees, while Patrick Mahomes has $208.1 million in total guaranteed money. These figures underline the immense financial value franchises place on their quarterbacks.
Running Backs
The running back position, while not commanding the same financial clout as quarterbacks, still features significant paychecks. Christian McCaffrey leads this group with a three-year APY of $17.2 million and a total of $36.3 million in guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor and Alvin Kamara follow, with three-year APYs of $14 million and $12.7 million, respectively.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers are vital playmakers, and their earnings reflect their on-field contributions. Justin Jefferson commands a staggering three-year APY of $35 million and has secured $110 million in total guaranteed money. A.J. Brown follows closely with a three-year APY of $32 million, and $84 million in guaranteed money. Amon-Ra St. Brown also earns a noteworthy three-year APY of $30 million and has $77 million guaranteed.
Tight Ends
Among tight ends, Travis Kelce leads with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. In the realm of total guarantees, T.J. Hockenson is notable with $42.5 million secured.
Offensive Linemen
Offensive linemen are essential for protecting quarterbacks and establishing the run game. Penei Sewell stands out 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, while Frank Ragnow has a three-year APY of $14 million. Notably, Robert Hunt has secured the most guaranteed money among guards, with a total of $63 million.
Defensive Players
The defensive side of the ball cannot be overlooked, with several positions featuring high earners.
Cornerbacks
Jaire Alexander leads cornerbacks with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. In terms of guaranteed money, Denzel Ward secures $71.25 million, narrowly edging out Jalen Ramsey, who has $71.2 million guaranteed.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. is a key figure among safeties, earning a three-year APY of $21.03 million and $45 million in total guaranteed money. Meanwhile, Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are also among the high earners in this category.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers are indispensable for pressuring the quarterback. Nick Bosa leads this group with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt follows with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
Among defensive tackles, Chris Jones stands out with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also noteworthy players in this category.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith headlines the off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds also secure surpassing contracts, showcasing the value placed on this position.
Special Teams
Special teams players don't command the same salaries as other positions, but their roles are crucial. Justin Tucker leads in three-year APY among kickers with $6.2 million and has $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Michael Dickson leads the punters with an APY of $3.9 million and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, a testament to the specialized skill set he brings to the team.
The financial landscape of the NFL shows a diverse range of earnings across various positions, reflecting the different roles and contributions players make to their teams. Whether it's the massive contracts of quarterbacks or the crucial roles of special teams players, each position holds its unique importance in the overall fabric of the game.