Breakdown of NFL Player Salaries by Position

Quarterbacks

Joe Burrow stands atop the list of quarterbacks with the highest three-year average annual pay (APY), hauling in a staggering $62.9 million. Burrow's reward for his exceptional play on the field is further cemented by his substantial total guaranteed sum of $219.01 million.

Jared Goff trails Burrow with a respectable three-year APY of $57.3 million, showcasing that his consistency over the years hasn’t gone unnoticed. Right behind Goff is Trevor Lawrence, whose APY clocks in at $55 million, demonstrating his worth to his team and the league.

Deshaun Watson secured one of the most lucrative deals in NFL history, amassing a total guaranteed sum of $230 million. This financial commitment underscores his perceived value, despite the controversies surrounding him. Patrick Mahomes, another premier quarterback, has $208.1 million in total guaranteed money, solidifying his place among the highest earners in the NFL.

Running Backs

Christian McCaffrey leads all running backs with a three-year APY of $17.2 million, benefiting significantly with $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. His versatility and unique skill set have translated into an immense payday.

Jonathan Taylor emerges as another high earner with a three-year APY of $14 million, showcasing his explosive talent. Alvin Kamara isn't far behind, earning $12.7 million annually over three years, indicating the rising value of high-performing running backs.

Wide Receivers

At the wide receiver position, Justin Jefferson demands attention with a three-year APY of $35 million and a total guaranteed sum of $110 million. His dynamic play and consistent performance have made him an indispensable asset.

A.J. Brown follows with an impressive three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million in guaranteed money. Amon-Ra St. Brown rounds out this elite group with an APY of $30 million and $77 million guaranteed, reflecting their critical role in modern offenses.

Tight Ends

Among tight ends, Travis Kelce holds the top three-year APY at $17.1 million, underscoring his status as an elite player in his position. T.J. Hockenson has also made waves with $42.5 million in total guaranteed money, indicating his rising star in the league.

Offensive Linemen

In the trenches, Penei Sewell’s three-year APY of $28 million demonstrates his significant value, fortified by a guaranteed sum of $85 million. Chris Lindstrom is not far behind, with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Meanwhile, Frank Ragnow secures a three-year APY of $14 million, and Robert Hunt stands out with the highest guaranteed money among guards at $63 million.

Defensive Players

Cornerbacks

Jaire Alexander takes the lead among cornerbacks with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are close with guaranteed sums of $71.25 million and $71.2 million, respectively, highlighting their importance in their respective defenses.

Safeties

Antoine Winfield Jr. leads safeties with a three-year APY of $21.03 million and a total guaranteed amount of $45 million. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are acknowledged as high earners, showcasing their value and playmaking capabilities.

Edge Rushers

Nick Bosa heads the edge rushers category with a notable three-year APY of $34.7 million and $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt follows, securing a three-year APY of $30.5 million, reinforcing the significant investments teams make in premier pass rushers.

Defensive Tackles

Chris Jones stands out among defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed money. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also top players in this category, illustrating the critical role of interior linemen in disrupting opposing offenses.

Off-Ball Linebackers

Roquan Smith leads off-ball linebackers with a three-year APY of $20 million and a guaranteed sum of $60 million. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are also lauded for securing surpassing contracts, highlighting their defensive prowess.

Special Teams

Justin Tucker, renowned for his kicking precision, commands a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Michael Dickson leads punters with $3.9 million in APY and $8.5 million in guarantees. Long snapper Luke Rhodes earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, reflecting the specialized nature of the position.