Quarterbacks
In the high-stakes world of professional football, quarterbacks are often seen as the centerpiece of any offense. Leading the pack in financial rewards, Joe Burrow stands out with a staggering highest three-year average per year (APY) of $62.9 million. His financial prowess is not just limited to annual earnings, as Burrow has secured a total guaranteed sum of $219.01 million.
Following him in impressive earnings is Jared Goff with a three-year APY of $57.3 million, and Trevor Lawrence who comes in at $55 million. Deshaun Watson, on the other hand, has secured a monumental $230 million in total guaranteed money. Completing the top echelon of quarterbacks, Patrick Mahomes has his own substantial guaranteed amount of $208.1 million.
Running Backs
Running backs, despite often having shorter careers, still manage to command significant paychecks. Christian McCaffrey leads in this category with a three-year APY of $17.2 million along with $36.3 million in total guaranteed money. Jonathan Taylor and Alvin Kamara follow with three-year APYs of $14 million and $12.7 million respectively, underscoring their value on the field.
Wide Receivers
Wide receivers are crucial for stretching the field and making game-changing plays. Justin Jefferson has clearly made his mark, boasting a three-year APY of $35 million and securing $110 million in guaranteed money. Not far behind, A.J. Brown enjoys a three-year APY of $32 million and $84 million in guaranteed funds. Amon-Ra St. Brown is also rising through the ranks with a three-year APY of $30 million and guaranteed money totaling $77 million.
Tight Ends
Tight ends play a dual role in both blocking and catching passes, making their position unique. Travis Kelce is at the top of his class with a three-year APY of $17.1 million. T.J. Hockenson, while not leading in annual earnings, has an impressive total guaranteed amount of $42.5 million.
Offensive Linemen
The unsung heroes of any successful offense, offensive linemen, protect the prized quarterback and open lanes for running backs. Penei Sewell stands out with a noteworthy three-year APY of $28 million and $85 million in guaranteed money. Chris Lindstrom follows at $21.8 million, while Frank Ragnow's three-year APY stands at $14 million. Among guards, Robert Hunt has secured the most guaranteed money at $63 million, solidifying his impressive financial position.
Defensive Players
Cornerbacks
Among cornerbacks, Jaire Alexander leads with a three-year APY of $21.8 million. Denzel Ward and Jalen Ramsey are neck and neck in guaranteed money, with Ward slightly edging out at $71.25 million compared to Ramsey's $71.2 million.
Safeties
Antoine Winfield Jr. is a standout, earning a three-year APY of $21.03 million and securing $45 million in guaranteed funds. Other high earners in this position include Derwin James Jr. and Minkah Fitzpatrick, who also command significant salaries.
Edge Rushers
Edge rushers make their living by relentlessly hounding opposing quarterbacks. Nick Bosa is an elite earner with a three-year APY of $34.7 million and a massive $119.9 million in guaranteed money. T.J. Watt is another significant earner, with a three-year APY of $30.5 million.
Defensive Tackles
In the trenches, Chris Jones reigns supreme among defensive tackles with a three-year APY of $31.7 million and $101 million guaranteed. Other notable players include Aaron Donald and Christian Wilkins, who continue to dominate their positions.
Off-Ball Linebackers
Roquan Smith is setting the standard for off-ball linebackers, boasting a three-year APY of $20 million and $60 million in guaranteed money. Fred Warner and Tremaine Edmunds also secure significant contracts, underscoring their elite status.
Special Teams
Special teams players might not always steal the headlines, but their contributions are invaluable. Justin Tucker is the highest earner among kickers with a three-year APY of $6.2 million and $17.5 million in guaranteed money. Michael Dickson leads among punters with $3.9 million in APY and $8.5 million in guaranteed funds. Luke Rhodes, a long snapper, earns $1.67 million in three-year APY, highlighting the varied opportunities across special teams positions.
In summary, the financial landscape of professional football is a testament to the immense value these athletes bring to their teams. From quarterbacks commanding astronomical salaries to special teams players securing their niche, each position contributes uniquely to the game's success.