Who Are The NFL’s Highest-Paid Players at Each Position?

National Football League: Who Are The NFL’s Highest-Paid Players at Each Position?

As the NFL continues to evolve, the expectation for player salaries keeps climbing higher with each passing offseason. This year saw stars once again resetting the financial landscape for players across various positions. Pittsburgh Steelers legend T.J. Watt led the charge by signing a stunning three-year, $123 million extension on July 17, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.

In a similar vein, the New York Jets’ Sauce Gardner recently secured a four-year, $120.4 million extension, confirming his status as the highest-paid cornerback in the league. Earlier in the season, the Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley made headlines as he became the highest-paid running back ever, clinching a two-year extension valued at $41 million. Additionally, Maxx Crosby briefly held the title of the highest-paid defensive player before Myles Garrett’s deal surpassed his, with Garrett’s contract totaling $160 million and an average annual salary of $40 million. Just weeks later, Ja’Marr Chase signed a new contract, once again raising the bar to an average of $40.25 million per year.

It’s clear that other players, like Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, may also be eyeing record-breaking deals as the offseason unfolds.

Here’s a breakdown of the NFL’s highest-paid players based on their average annual value (AAV), according to Spotrac:

Quarterback: Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys ($60 million AAV)

Prescott became the league’s highest-paid player following a four-year, $240 million extension signed just before the Cowboys’ Week 1 clash with the Browns last season. This pivotal deal was born from a tumultuous offseason where Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was indecisive about Prescott’s contract.

Prescott earned this lucrative deal after an outstanding 2023 season, completing a career-high 69.5% of his passes and leading the league with 36 touchdowns. However, his completion rate fell to 64.7% during the first half of the 2024 season, which ended with him sidelined for the final nine games due to a partially torn hamstring.

Running Back: Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles ($20.6 million AAV)

Despite many debates surrounding the value of running backs, Barkley significantly improved his financial stature and that of his peers. He secured a two-year, $41 million extension after his impressive performance, winning the NFL Offensive Player of the Year during his first season with the Eagles jilibet official website. The New York Giants opted not to re-sign Barkley after six seasons, allowing him to join the Eagles, who then solidified their investment by offering him a lucrative deal following his remarkable 2,005 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in the regular season, culminating in a Super Bowl LIX victory.

Wide Receiver: Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals ($40.25 million AAV)

After waiting patiently for a new contract since the beginning of the 2024 season, Chase signed a four-year deal worth $161 million with $112 million guaranteed, making him the second highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history after T.J. Watt. He is the first receiver to surpass the $40 million annual average, following an incredible 2024 campaign where he led the league in receiving touchdowns, receptions, and yards—distinguishing himself as one of the league’s elite players.

Tight End: George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers ($19.1 million AAV)

Just days after the 2025 NFL Draft, Kittle locked in a four-year, $76.4 million extension with the 49ers, surpassing the contract signed by Trey McBride with the Arizona Cardinals. Remaining from San Francisco’s 2017 draft class, Kittle has become a formidable force on the field. Over eight seasons, he’s proven to be a reliable receiver and blocker, earning All-Pro recognition five times and a spot on six Pro Bowls.

Offensive Tackle: Tristan Wirfs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers ($28.12 million AAV)

After signing a five-year, $140.6 million deal last summer, Wirfs ascended to the status of the highest-paid offensive tackle. Notably, he has excelled on both sides of the line and made history as the first player to be named a first-team All-Pro tackle for both right and left positions. He displayed unrivaled pass-blocking prowess, recording a stunning grade of 94.1.

Offensive Guard: Trey Smith, Kansas City Chiefs ($23.4 million AAV)

Smith, being one of only two players to receive the franchise tag this offseason, is on track to become the highest-paid offensive guard. His remarkable performance at the right guard spot in 2024 saw him give up only one sack across 1,288 snaps.

Center: Creed Humphrey, Kansas City Chiefs ($18 million AAV)

Humphrey, positioned beside Smith, boasted the highest pass-blocking grade for centers in 2024 at 91 www.ph365.com.5, matching Smith’s powerful influence to ensure the success of the Chiefs’ offensive line during their Super Bowl runs.

Defensive End: Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns ($40 million AAV)

Garrett’s previous contract made him the highest-paid non-quarterback momentarily before Chase’s deal was signed. His massive $160 million contract featured $123.5 million guaranteed, following a month of speculation surrounding a potential trade. The Browns successfully locked him down, recognizing his impressive statistics, including 14 sacks and a league-leading 22 tackles for loss in 2024.

Defensive Tackle: Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs ($31.75 million AAV)

Jones stepped into the spotlight as the highest-paid defensive tackle with a five-year, $158.75 million contract. His impressive consistency has led to significant contributions, including at least nine sacks in five out of the last seven seasons.

Outside Linebacker: Micah Parsons, Green Bay Packers ($47 million AAV)

Parsons, having made a name for himself with the Cowboys, is betting on his consistency in his new role with the Packers where he will command the largest salary for a non-quarterback to date.

Inside Linebacker: Fred Warner, San Francisco 49ers ($21 million AAV)

Warner re-signed with the 49ers for a three-year, $63 million extension, demonstrating his value to the team over seven seasons. He stands out as one of the most reliable inside linebackers in the league.

Cornerback: Sauce Gardner, New York Jets ($30.1 million AAV)

Gardner earned his top cornerback status through consistent performances, including two All-Pro selections. s777 apk download Despite some criticism for a quieter 2024 season, the Jets are optimistic about his future potential. philippine sport

Safety: Kyle Hamilton, Baltimore Ravens ($25.1 million AAV)

After a standout year, Hamilton signed a record four-year, $100.4 million extension, showcasing his value with 107 combined tackles. He continues to solidify his place among the NFL’s elite safeties.

Kicker: Harrison Butker, Kansas City Chiefs ($6.4 million AAV)

Butker received a significant four-year, $25.6 million contract following his pivotal role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory. His accuracy as a kicker remains unmatched in the league despite lacking Pro Bowl or All-Pro accolades.

punter: AJ Cole, Las Vegas Raiders ($3 ph6.95 million AAV)

Cole signed a four-year extension with the Raiders, taking over from Michael Dickson as the highest-paid punter. His impressive statistics rank him among the best in the position’s history.

What do you think about the latest shifts in NFL player salaries?