Quarterbacks
Joe Burrow stands as the top earner among quarterbacks with the highest three-year Average Per Year (APY) of $62.9 million. This young talent's earning power is complemented by his substantial total guaranteed money of $219.01 million. Meanwhile, Jared Goff follows closely with a three-year APY of $57.3 million, signaling his significant role and value in the league. Trevor Lawrence, another rising star, secures a three-year APY of $55 million.
Veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson has locked in one of the most lucrative deals, with total guaranteed money amounting to $230 million — the highest among players in this list. Patrick Mahomes, often celebrated for his dynamic playmaking abilities, has a total guaranteed sum of $208.1 million.
Running Backs
Christian McCaffrey leads the pack of running backs with a three-year APY of $17.2 million coupled with total guaranteed money of $36.3 million. Jonathan Taylor, known for his versatility and endurance, is right behind with a three-year APY of $14 million. Alvin Kamara, renowned for his agility and scoring ability, rounds out this elite group with a three-year APY of $12.7 million.
Wide Receivers
The wide receivers' category witnesses Justin Jefferson as the highest earner, commanding a three-year APY of $35 million, supported by $110 million in total guaranteed money. A.J. Brown follows, with a three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million in total guaranteed funds. Amon-Ra St. Brown also marks his presence with a commendable three-year APY of $30 million and $77 million guaranteed.
Tight Ends
Travis Kelce remains a standout in the tight end position, securing a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson, another valuable asset, boasts a total guaranteed amount of $42.5 million, highlighting the significant investments teams are willing to make in dynamic and reliable tight ends.
Offensive Linemen
Penei Sewell leads among offensive linemen, earning $28 million annually over the next three years, paired with $85 million in guaranteed money. Chris Lindstrom comes next with a three-year APY of $21.8 million, underlining his pivotal role on the offensive line. Frank Ragnow follows with a three-year APY of $14 million. Additionally, Robert Hunt has secured the highest guaranteed money among guards at $63 million.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Jaire Alexander tops the cornerbacks list with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are close contenders, with Ward having guaranteed money of $71.25 million and Ramsey slightly trailing with $71.2 million.
Safeties
Among safeties, Antoine Winfield Jr. commands a three-year APY of $21.03 million and total guaranteed money amounting to $45 million. Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick are also recognized as high earners in this defensive position.
Edge Rushers
Nick Bosa leads the edge rushers with an impressive three-year APY of $34.7 million, supported by guaranteed money of $119.9 million. T.J. Watt follows with a significant three-year APY of $30.5 million, reflecting his critical role in defensive plays.
Defensive Tackles
Chris Jones assumes a prominent position among defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million in guaranteed funds. Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins are also acknowledged as top players in their category.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith commands attention with a three-year APY of $20 million and guaranteed money of $60 million. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds are also recognized for securing surpassing contracts, illustrating their value in coordinating defensive efforts.
Special Teams
Kicker Justin Tucker not only leads with a three-year APY of $6.2 million but also secures $17.5 million in guaranteed money, underscoring his reliability and consistency. Punter Michael Dickson earns $3.9 million in APY and has secured $8.5 million in guaranteed money, leading among players in his role. Additionally, long snapper Luke Rhodes secures $1.67 million in three-year APY, clinching his importance in special teams.
These financial figures reveal a nuanced portrait of the NFL’s valuation of its players across various positions, showing where teams are willing to make their most significant investments. From quarterbacks to special teams, each role's financial makeup offers insight into the evolving dynamics and strategic thinking of today's NFL.