Surprisingly, the average estimated NFL player’s salary in 2023 is between $1 million and $ 1.5 million.
However, the amount skyrockets for the superstars of the league. Moreover, players live like king-size with such lucrative contracts.
Ever wondered how much money NFL players make? Or, for that matter, ever thought about the luxury the NFL players can enjoy?
Well, say no more! In this article, we take a look at the 15 highest-paid NFL players’ salaries.
So, without further ado, let’s look into the 15 Highest Paid NFL Players’ Salaries.
15 Highest Paid NFL Players’ Salaries
NFL player contracts are measured using various complicated metrics. Therefore, we will use the average annual salary to determine the 15 Highest Paid NFL Players’ Salaries.
The following list is compiled from official and trusted sources such as NFL.com.
Before we dive deep into the specifics, let’s first have an overview of the highest-paid NFL player in terms of average salary:
15. Kirk Cousins
On March 13, 2022, Kirk Cousins solidified his commitment to the Minnesota Vikings by signing a notable one-year contract extension valued at $35 million.
Cousins signed a 1 year, $35 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, including a $25 million signing bonus, $35 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $35 million.
A strategic move followed on March 14, 2023, where the Vikings and Cousins opted for a contract adjustment.
The team converted a substantial $20 million roster bonus into a signing bonus, incorporating an innovative approach with the addition of two void years.
This tactical maneuver not only demonstrated the mutual flexibility between Cousins and the Minnesota Vikings but also resulted in a cap clearance of $16 million, strategically positioning the team for future financial considerations.
In 2023, Cousins will earn a base salary of $10 million and a restructure bonus of $20 million, while carrying a cap hit of $20.25 million and a dead cap value of $48.75 million.
14. Derek Carr
On March 6, 2023, Derek Carr orchestrated a significant move in his career by signing a formidable four-year contract with the New Orleans Saints, marking a pivotal moment for both player and franchise.
This high-stakes contract is valued at an impressive $150 million, cementing Carr’s status as a pivotal figure in the Saints’ quarterback lineup.
The comprehensive details of Carr’s contract with the Saints include a noteworthy $28.5 million signing bonus, a substantial $100 million guaranteed, and an impressive average annual salary of $37.5 million.
The intricacies of this deal reflect not only the financial commitment from the Saints but also the value placed on Carr’s skills and leadership on the field.
In the first year of the contract, 2023, Carr’s earnings will consist of a base salary of $1.5 million and a signing bonus of $28.5 million.
This financial structure is reflected in a calculated cap hit of $7.2 million, underscoring the strategic financial planning by the Saints.
Additionally, the contract presents a dead cap value of $60 million, emphasizing the long-term commitment and expectations associated with this impactful signing.
As Derek Carr embarks on this new chapter with the Saints, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the impact he will bring to the team, given the weighty investment made by the franchise.
13. Aaron Rodgers
On April 24, 2023, the NFL landscape witnessed a blockbuster trade as Aaron Rodgers, the veteran quarterback, made a groundbreaking move from the Green Bay Packers to the New York Jets.
Fast forward to July 26, 2023, and Rodgers solidified his commitment to the Jets by signing a game-changing three-year, $112.5 million restructured contract extension.
This dynamic deal included an impressive $75 million guaranteed, showcasing the team’s dedication to Rodgers as a cornerstone player.
The contract further boasted an average annual salary of $37.5 million, underscoring the significance of Rodgers’ presence in the Jets’ lineup.
Breaking down the financial details for 2023, Rodgers is set to earn a base salary of $1,838,888, complemented by a substantial signing bonus of $35 million and a workout bonus of $50,000.
This financial structure results in a calculated cap hit of $8,888,888, demonstrating the Jets’ strategic planning in managing their salary cap.
Additionally, the contract carries a dead cap value of $74,050,000, emphasizing the commitment and expectations associated with securing Aaron Rodgers as a pivotal asset for the New York Jets.
12. Matthew Stafford
On March 19, 2022, Matthew Stafford, the seasoned quarterback, solidified his commitment to the Los Angeles Rams by inking a substantial four-year contract extension.
This significant move, valued at an impressive $160 million, not only reflected the team’s confidence in Stafford’s prowess but also positioned him as a pivotal figure in the Rams’ quarterback lineup.
The intricate details of Stafford’s contract showcased the magnitude of the commitment from both parties.
The deal encompassed a noteworthy $60 million signing bonus, a staggering $130 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $40 million, underscoring the importance of Stafford’s role as a cornerstone player for the Rams.
Breaking down the financials for the year 2023, Stafford is slated to earn a base salary of $1.5 million, complemented by a significant signing bonus of $26 million.
This financial structure contributes to a calculated cap hit of $20 million, highlighting the strategic planning employed by the Rams to manage their salary cap effectively.
Additionally, the contract carries a dead cap value of $106.5 million, emphasizing the substantial commitment and expectations associated with securing Matthew Stafford as a long-term asset for the Los Angeles Rams.
As Stafford continues to lead the Rams on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to the quarterback’s value and the team’s dedication to sustained success in the NFL.
11. Daniel Jones
On March 7, 2023, Daniel Jones, the quarterback for the New York Giants, marked a pivotal moment in his career by signing a substantial four-year, $160 million contract extension.
This lucrative deal not only reflects Jones’ importance to the team but also solidifies his position as a key player in the Giants’ future plans.
The intricate details of Jones’ contract reveal the significant investment made by the Giants.
The deal includes a substantial $36 million signing bonus, an impressive $92 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $40 million.
These numbers underline the team’s commitment to Jones as a cornerstone of their franchise.
In the 2023 season, Jones is set to earn a base salary of $1,080,000, complemented by a significant signing bonus of $36 million, a restructure bonus of $8,420,000, and a workout bonus of $500,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $15,435,000.
Additionally, the contract carries a dead cap value of $81,500,000, highlighting the long-term commitment and expectations associated with securing Daniel Jones as a vital asset for the New York Giants.
On September 4, 2023, the Giants further optimized their financial strategy by converting $8.42 million of Jones’ 2023 base salary into a signing bonus.
This shrewd move not only showcased the team’s commitment to managing their salary cap effectively but also resulted in the clearance of $6.315 million, demonstrating a proactive approach to financial flexibility.
10. Dak Prescott
On March 9, 2021, Dak Prescott, the star quarterback, entered a groundbreaking chapter in his career by signing a substantial four-year, $160 million contract extension with the Dallas Cowboys.
This lucrative deal not only underscored Prescott’s pivotal role in the team but also solidified his position as a cornerstone player for the Cowboys.
The detailed terms of Prescott’s contract revealed the significant financial commitment made by the Cowboys.
The agreement included an impressive $66 million signing bonus, a staggering $126 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $40 million.
These numbers not only reflected Prescott’s exceptional skill but also demonstrated the Cowboys’ dedication to securing their quarterback for the long term.
In the 2023 season, Prescott is set to earn a base salary of $1,700,000, supplemented by a substantial restructuring bonus of $29,300,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $26,832,647.
Additionally, the contract carries a dead cap value of $89,070,000, highlighting the substantial commitment and expectations associated with Prescott as a vital asset for the Dallas Cowboys.
As Prescott continues to lead the Cowboys on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
9. Josh Allen
On August 6, 2021, Josh Allen, the dynamic quarterback, penned a groundbreaking six-year, $258 million contract extension with the Buffalo Bills, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
This substantial deal not only highlighted Allen’s integral role in the team but solidified his position as a key franchise player for the Bills.
Delving into the intricate details of Allen’s contract, the agreement included a notable $16.5 million signing bonus, an impressive $150 million guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $43,005,667.
These figures underscored not only Allen’s exceptional talent but also showcased the Bills’ unwavering commitment to securing their quarterback for the long term.
In the upcoming 2023 season, Allen is slated to earn a base salary of $1,080,000, complemented by a substantial restructure bonus of $26,420,000 and a workout bonus of $500,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $18,636,281.
Additionally, the contract carries a dead cap value of $117,789,124, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Josh Allen as a cornerstone asset for the Buffalo Bills.
As Allen continues to lead the Bills on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
8. Patrick Mahomes
On July 6, 2020, Patrick Mahomes, the exceptional quarterback, solidified his long-term commitment to the Kansas City Chiefs by signing a historic 10-year, $450 million contract extension.
This monumental deal not only highlighted Mahomes’ extraordinary talent but also positioned him as a franchise player with the Chiefs for the foreseeable future.
Examining the comprehensive details of Mahomes’ contract, the agreement included a $10 million signing bonus, an impressive $141,481,905 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $45 million.
In the 2023 season, Mahomes is set to earn a base salary of $1,325,556, accompanied by a $20,574,444 signing bonus, a substantial $22,400,000 roster bonus, a restructure bonus of $12,000,000, a workout bonus of $550,000, and an incentive bonus of $2,500,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $37,133,825. Moreover, the contract initially carried a dead cap value of $151,281,139.
On September 18, 2023, Mahomes and the Chiefs engaged in a strategic move, signing a restructured contract that redistributed an additional $43.3 million into the 2023-2026 league years.
This restructuring, coupled with the staggering $208.1 million guaranteed for practical purposes, highlighted the mutual commitment of Mahomes and the Chiefs to long-term success and financial flexibility.
7. Deshaun Watson
On March 18, 2022, Deshaun Watson, the accomplished quarterback, marked a pivotal moment in his career by signing a substantial five-year, $230 million contract extension with the Cleveland Browns.
This transformative deal not only highlighted Watson’s exceptional skill set but also solidified his position as a cornerstone player for the Browns.
Unpacking the intricate details of Watson’s contract, the agreement featured a notable $44,965,000 signing bonus, an extraordinary $230 million guaranteed, and an impressive average annual salary of $46 million.
These figures underscored not only Watson’s elite standing but also showcased the Browns’ resolute commitment to securing their quarterback for the long term.
In the upcoming 2023 season, Watson is slated to earn a base salary of $1,080,000, complemented by a substantial restructuring bonus of $44,920,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $19,057,000.
Additionally, the contract carries a significant dead cap value of $220,057,000, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Watson as an integral asset for the Cleveland Browns.
As Watson takes the helm for the Browns on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
6. Kyler Murray
On July 21, 2022, Kyler Murray, solidified his long-term commitment to the Arizona Cardinals by signing a substantial five-year, $230.5 million contract extension.
This significant deal not only highlighted Murray’s extraordinary talent but also positioned him as a cornerstone player for the Cardinals.
Diving into the detailed terms of Murray’s contract, the agreement included a noteworthy $29,035,000 signing bonus, an impressive $159,797,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $46,100,000.
These figures not only reflected Murray’s elite status but also illustrated the Cardinals’ unwavering dedication to securing their quarterback for an extended period.
In the 2023 season, Murray is set to earn a base salary of $2,000,000, complemented by a substantial signing bonus of $36,000,000 and a workout bonus of $1,000,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $16,007,000.
Moreover, the contract carries a dead cap value of $97,528,000, highlighting the substantial investment and expectations associated with Kyler Murray as an integral asset for the Arizona Cardinals.
As Murray continues to lead the Cardinals on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
5. Russell Wilson
On September 1, 2022, Russell Wilson, took a significant step in his career by signing a substantial five-year, $242.5 million contract extension with the Denver Broncos.
This transformative deal not only highlighted Wilson’s exceptional skills but also solidified his role as a key player for the Broncos.
Delving into the details of Wilson’s contract, the agreement featured a remarkable $50,000,000 signing bonus, an impressive $161,000,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $48,517,647.
These figures not only reflected Wilson’s elite status but also showcased the Broncos’ firm commitment to securing his services for the long term.
In the upcoming 2023 season, Wilson is set to earn a base salary of $8,000,000, supplemented by a substantial signing bonus of $20,000,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $22,000,000.
Additionally, the contract carries a notable dead cap value of $107,000,000, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Russell Wilson as a cornerstone asset for the Denver Broncos.
As Wilson takes the field for the Broncos, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
4. Jalen Hurts
On April 17, 2023, Jalen Hurts, the rising quarterback, solidified his long-term commitment to the Philadelphia Eagles by inking a substantial five-year, $255 million contract extension.
This significant deal not only highlighted Hurts’ promising talent but also positioned him as a cornerstone player for the Eagles.
Examining the detailed terms of Hurts’ contract, the agreement included a notable $23,294,000 signing bonus, an impressive $179,399,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $51,000,000.
These figures not only reflected Hurts’ potential but also showcased the Eagles’ commitment to securing their quarterback for an extended period.
In the 2023 season, Hurts is set to earn a base salary of $1,010,000, complemented by a substantial signing bonus of $23,294,000.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $6,154,286.
Moreover, the contract carries a dead cap value of $110,485,486, highlighting the substantial investment and expectations associated with Jalen Hurts as an integral asset for the Philadelphia Eagles.
As Hurts continues to lead the Eagles on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
3. Lamar Jackson
On April 27, 2023, Lamar Jackson, the dynamic quarterback, solidified his long-term commitment to the Baltimore Ravens by signing a substantial five-year, $260 million contract extension.
This groundbreaking deal not only highlighted Jackson’s exceptional talent but also positioned him as a cornerstone player for the Ravens.
Delving into the detailed terms of Jackson’s contract, the agreement featured a remarkable $72,500,000 signing bonus, an impressive $185,000,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $52,000,000.
These figures not only reflected Jackson’s elite status but also showcased the Ravens’ firm commitment to securing their quarterback for the foreseeable future.
In the 2023 season, Jackson is set to earn a base salary of $7,500,000, supplemented by a substantial signing bonus of $72,500,000. These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $22,150,000.
Additionally, the contract carries a notable dead cap value of $135,000,000, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Lamar Jackson as a vital asset for the Baltimore Ravens.
As Jackson continues to lead the Ravens on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
2. Justin Herbert
On July 25, 2023, Justin Herbert, the standout quarterback, solidified his long-term commitment to the Los Angeles Chargers by signing a substantial five-year, $262.5 million contract extension.
This lucrative deal not only highlighted Herbert’s exceptional talent but also positioned him as a cornerstone player for the Chargers.
Delving into the detailed terms of Herbert’s contract, the agreement featured a notable $16,128,376 signing bonus, an extraordinary $218,738,376 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $52,500,000.
These figures not only reflected Herbert’s elite status but also showcased the Chargers’ firm commitment to securing their quarterback for the foreseeable future.
In the 2023 season, Herbert is set to earn a base salary of $1,010,000, supplemented by a substantial signing bonus of $16,128,376.
These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $8,458,176.
Moreover, the contract carries a notable dead cap value of $137,960,876, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Justin Herbert as a vital asset for the Los Angeles Chargers.
As Herbert continues to lead the Chargers on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
1. Joe Burrow
On September 7, 2023, Joe Burrow, signed a substantial five-year, $275 million contract extension with the Bengals.
This monumental deal not only highlighted Burrow’s exceptional talent but also positioned him as a cornerstone player for the Bengals.
Examining the detailed terms of Burrow’s contract, the agreement featured a significant $40 million signing bonus, an impressive $219,010,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $55 million.
These figures not only reflected Burrow’s elite status but also showcased the Bengals’ firm commitment to securing their quarterback for the foreseeable future.
In the 2023 season, Burrow is set to earn a base salary of $1,010,000, complemented by a substantial signing bonus of $40,000,000 and a roster bonus of $4,535,018. These financial components contribute to a calculated cap hit of $19,515,043.
Moreover, the contract carries a notable dead cap value of $174,229,043, emphasizing the substantial investment and expectations associated with Joe Burrow as a vital asset for the Cincinnati Bengals.
As Burrow continues to lead the Bengals on the field, this contract extension stands as a testament to his value, the team’s commitment to success, and their strategic financial planning in navigating the competitive landscape of the NFL.
Conclusion
NFL is a grueling sport of power, speed, and stamina. However, the best of the best garner a hefty return for their time and effort.
Moreover, with NFL franchises wanting to win the Superbowl yearly, dishing out millions for players is a no-brainer.
Finally, the players mentioned above mark the end of our coverage of the 15 highest-paid NFL Players’ Salaries in 2023.
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