NFL's Lucrative Contracts
The NFL has seen some of the most lucrative contracts in sports history, reflecting the tremendous value and talent of its top players. From quarterbacks securing multi-million dollar deals to defensive stars breaking records, here's a rundown of some of the biggest contracts in recent years.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence’s 5-year, $275 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, signed in 2024, demonstrates a significant commitment. With $200 million guaranteed, the Jaguars have placed their faith in the young quarterback. Lawrence led the Jaguars to an 8-8 record in the 2023 season and threw for 21 touchdowns, the second-most of his career so far. Over the last two seasons, he accumulated over 8,000 passing yards and 55 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, joining the elite company of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jared Goff.
Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals
Joe Burrow’s 5-year, $275 million contract signed in 2023 ensures he remains the cornerstone for the Cincinnati Bengals with $219 million in guaranteed money. During the 2022-23 season, Burrow led the Bengals to a stellar 12-4 record. He threw for 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, passed for 4,475 yards, and completed 68.3% of his passes, underscoring his value and the team’s confidence in him.
Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers
Nick Bosa's 5-year, $170 million deal signed in 2023, which includes $122.5 million in guaranteed money, makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The San Francisco 49ers recognized Bosa’s outstanding performance in the previous season, where he earned the Defensive Player of the Year award and led the league with 18.5 sacks.
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
In 2023, the Los Angeles Chargers locked in Justin Herbert with a 5-year, $262.5 million deal, guaranteeing 83.3% of the total contract value. Herbert, who became the most successful rookie quarterback in terms of passing yards and completions, led the Chargers to their first playoff appearance in four years. His contract’s average annual value of $52.5 million is the highest in NFL history.
Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson’s 5-year, $260 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, signed in 2023, includes $185 million guaranteed and came after a protracted negotiation period. Jackson, who was the second unanimous selection as NFL MVP, chose to represent himself in these negotiations.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts' extension in 2023, valued at 5 years and $255 million, includes a franchise first— a no-trade clause. With 70.3% of his contract guaranteed, Hurts aims to build on his success, which saw him lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl berth.
Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns
Deshaun Watson’s 5-year, $230 million contract with the Cleveland Browns, signed in 2022, is notable not just for the $230 million guarantee but also for the controversies that have marred his tenure. Watson faced an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray’s 5-year, $189.5 million deal, signed in 2022, includes an impressive 82.2% in guaranteed money. Despite his solid performance, his season was cut short due to injury, and the Cardinals struggled with a 4-13 record.
Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos’ 5-year, $161 million deal with Russell Wilson, signed in 2022, might be one of the worst trades and contracts in NFL history if his first season’s performance is any indicator. Wilson struggled, barely completing 60% of his passes and throwing just 16 touchdowns.
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers' 3-year, $150.8 million contract with the Green Bay Packers, signed in 2022, makes him one of the highest-paid athletes annually. Despite this, Rodgers now plays for the New York Jets following a trade that occurred after a lackluster season with the Packers.
Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen’s 6-year, $150 million extension signed in 2021 guarantees him $150 million. Allen demonstrated his worth by throwing for over 9,306 yards and 74 touchdowns over the past two years, proving his value to the Buffalo Bills.
MLB’s Most Valuable Players
Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers
Shohei Ohtani's 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, signed in 2023, smashed predictions, cementing his status as arguably the best player in baseball. Despite being sidelined as a pitcher next season due to an elbow injury, Ohtani aims to make the playoffs for the first time in his career.
Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels
Mike Trout’s 12-year, $426.5 million contract signed in 2019 ensured that one of baseball’s best players remained an Angel. Despite injuries, Trout has managed to play 423 games and win the 2019 MVP since signing his contract.
NBA’s Record Contracts
Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics
Jaylen Brown’s 5-year, $304 million deal signed in 2023 stands as the largest in NBA history. Averaging 26.6 points per game, Brown has been pivotal in leading the Celtics to three of the last four Eastern Conference Finals alongside Jayson Tatum.
Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic, the reigning NBA Finals MVP, signed a max extension with the Denver Nuggets in 2022 worth $272 million, making it the largest contract in NBA history until Brown’s record deal.
NHL’s Distinguished Deals
Shea Weber, Nashville Predators
Shea Weber’s 14-year, $110 million deal signed in 2012 has seen its share of ups and downs. While Weber has been plagued by injuries, it remains uncertain whether he will play in the NHL again.
Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins
Sidney Crosby’s 12-year, $104.4 million contract signed in 2013 ensures that the Penguins will benefit from his skills until his age-38 season. Despite aging, Crosby continues to perform at a high level.