Quarterbacks
In the realm of NFL quarterbacks, Joe Burrow leads the pack with a staggering three-year average per year (APY) of $62.9 million. His earnings set a high bar for his peers, underlined by his total guaranteed money amounting to $219.01 million. Close behind is Jared Goff with a three-year APY of $57.3 million, followed by Trevor Lawrence at $55 million. These figures not only reflect their on-field capabilities but also the financial faith their respective teams place in their talents.
Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson has made headlines by securing a monumental $230 million in total guaranteed money, illustrating the high stakes and substantial investments teams are willing to make for elite talent. Patrick Mahomes, another cornerstone of the league, boasts $208.1 million in total guaranteed money, underscoring his importance to the Kansas City Chiefs' long-term aspirations.
Running Backs
Switching focus to running backs, Christian McCaffrey stands out with a three-year APY of $17.2 million, coupled with $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. McCaffrey's compensation underscores his dual-threat value, contributing significantly both in the running and passing game. Jonathan Taylor follows with a three-year APY of $14 million, showcasing his prominence in the Indianapolis Colts' offensive scheme. Alvin Kamara, another versatile back, rounds out the top earners in this category with a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers
Among wide receivers, Justin Jefferson leads the group with an impressive three-year APY of $35 million and $110 million in total guaranteed money. His meteoric rise and on-field dominance have translated into substantial financial gain. Trailing him are A.J. Brown and Amon-Ra St. Brown, with three-year APYs of $32 million and $30 million respectively. Brown's total guaranteed money stands at $84 million, while St. Brown secures $77 million, reflecting their crucial roles as offensive playmakers.
Tight Ends
The tight end position sees Travis Kelce as a prominent figure, earning $17.1 million in three-year APY. His consistent performance and ability to influence games in various ways make him an invaluable asset. T.J. Hockenson, meanwhile, has secured $42.5 million in total guaranteed money, indicating his upward trajectory and importance to his team's passing attack.
Offensive Linemen
In the trenches, offensive linemen Penei Sewell and Chris Lindstrom are leading the charge financially. Sewell earns a remarkable $28 million annually over the next three years, with $85 million in guaranteed money, highlighting his role in protecting the quarterback and anchoring the offensive line. Lindstrom's three-year APY is $21.8 million, underscoring his value on the offensive front. Frank Ragnow, with a three-year APY of $14 million, and Robert Hunt, who has secured $63 million in guaranteed money, also demonstrate the critical nature of their positions in any successful offense.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Among cornerbacks, Jaire Alexander stands tall with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. His standout performances and ability to shut down elite receivers have made him a top-paid defender. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey follow closely, with guaranteed amounts of $71.25 million and $71.2 million respectively, reflecting their crucial roles in their teams' defensive schemes.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. leads the safeties with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and total guaranteed money of $45 million. His versatile defensive play and knack for making key plays have been richly rewarded. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are also among the high earners, though specific figures were not provided, their financial stature reflects their elite status in the league.
Edge Rushers
Nick Bosa commands attention among edge rushers with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and guaranteed money amounting to $119.9 million. His ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks has made him one of the highest-paid defensive players. T.J. Watt, another sacking machine, follows with a three-year APY of $30.5 million, demonstrating the premium placed on elite pass rushers.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones is a dominant force among defensive tackles, with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money, testifying to his game-changing abilities on the defensive line. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also recognized as top players, though specific financial details were not outlined, their reputations and performances speak volumes.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith leads the off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and guaranteed money of $60 million. His tenacity and leadership on the field make him a cornerstone of his team's defense. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds have also secured significant contracts, signaling their prominence and crucial roles within their respective defensive units.
Special Teams
Special teams often go unnoticed, but their contributions are well-compensated. Justin Tucker, renowned for his clutch kicking, earns $6.2 million in three-year APY and $17.5 million in guaranteed money, reflecting his status as one of the NFL's premier kickers. Michael Dickson leads punters with a $3.9 million APY and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds, while long snapper Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, underscoring the importance of every role on special teams.