NFL's Lucrative Contracts
In the competitive world of professional sports, few leagues offer contracts as staggering as those handed out in the NFL. Here, we break down some of the most lucrative deals in recent history.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 Years, $275 Million
In 2024, Trevor Lawrence solidified his future with the Jacksonville Jaguars by signing a five-year, $275 million contract, with a remarkable $200 million guaranteed. This demonstrates a significant commitment by the Jaguars to their young quarterback. Lawrence led the Jaguars to an 8-8 record in the 2023 season, throwing for 21 touchdowns, the second-highest total of his career. 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: 5 Years, $275 Million
Joe Burrow's contract, signed in 2023, ensures he remains a cornerstone for the Cincinnati Bengals with $219 million guaranteed. During the 2022-23 season, Burrow led the Bengals to an impressive 12-4 record. He showcased his prowess by throwing for 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, passing for 4,475 yards, and completing 68.3% of his passes.
Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers: 5 Years, $170 Million
Nick Bosa’s 2023 contract with the San Francisco 49ers, valued at $170 million and including $122.5 million in guaranteed money, makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The 49ers recognized Bosa’s outstanding performance from 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: 5 Years, $262.5 Million
The Los Angeles Chargers secured Justin Herbert’s services in 2023 with a contract guaranteeing 83.3% of the total contract value. Herbert, who quickly 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: 5 Years, $260 Million
Lamar Jackson’s 2023 contract with the Baltimore Ravens, with $185 million guaranteed, came after a protracted negotiation period. Jackson, the second unanimous selection as NFL MVP, represented himself in these negotiations, showcasing his off-field prowess as much as his on-field talent.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Years, $255 Million
Jalen Hurts' contract extension in 2023 was a landmark deal for the Philadelphia Eagles. Not only does this contract include a first in franchise history—a no-trade clause—but also sees 70.3% of the $255 million guaranteed. Hurts aims to build on his success, which saw him lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl berth.
Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns: 5 Years, $230 Million
Deshaun Watson’s 2022 contract with the Cleveland Browns is notable for its $230 million guarantee. However, Watson’s tenure has been marred by controversies, including an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals: 5 Years, $189.5 Million
Kyler Murray's contract, signed in 2022, includes an impressive 82.2% in guaranteed money. Despite a solid performance, his season was cut short due to injury, and the Cardinals struggled with a 4-13 record.
Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos: 5 Years, $161 Million
The Denver Broncos' 2022 deal with Russell Wilson might be considered one of the worst trades and contracts in NFL history based on his first season’s performance. Wilson struggled, completing just 60% of his passes and throwing only 16 touchdowns.
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers: 3 Years, $150.8 Million
Aaron Rodgers' 2022 contract with the Green Bay Packers makes him one of the highest-paid athletes annually. Despite this lucrative deal, Rodgers now plays for the New York Jets following a trade after a lackluster season with the Packers.
Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: 6 Years, $150 Million
Josh Allen's contract extension, signed in 2021, guarantees him $150 million. Over the past two years, Allen has demonstrated his worth by throwing for over 9,306 yards and 74 touchdowns, reinforcing his value to the Buffalo Bills.
MLB’s Most Valuable Players
Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers: 10 Years, $700 Million
Shohei Ohtani’s 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, signed in 2023, broke predictions and cemented 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: 12 Years, $426.5 Million
Mike Trout’s 2019 deal ensured that one of baseball’s best players remained with the Angels. 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: 5 Years, $304 Million
Jaylen Brown’s 2023 deal 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: 5 Years, $272 Million
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: 14 Years, $110 Million
Shea Weber’s 14-year 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: 12 Years, $104.4 Million
Sidney Crosby’s 2013 contract ensures that the Penguins will benefit from his skills until his age-38 season. Despite aging, Crosby continues to perform at a high level.