Top Highest Paid Quarterbacks in 2019
The highest paid quarterbacks in 2019 were led by Patrick Mahomes, who signed a record ten year extension with the Kansas City Chiefs. The deal was worth up to $450 million, making him the top earner in the league that year. Details on the Mahomes contract show it included $141.4 million guaranteed at signing. This deal redefined the market for quarterback compensation across the NFL.
Following Mahomes, the second highest paid quarterback was Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys. Prescott signed a six year deal worth $160 million, with $60 million guaranteed. Contract breakdowns confirm his average annual value was roughly $26.7 million. His extension made him the highest paid player on the Cowboys roster at the time.
Contract Structures and Guarantees
Patrick Mahomes led the highest paid quarterbacks in 2019 with the largest guaranteed money in NFL history. His contract included a $41.6 million signing bonus and a no trade clause. The structure was designed to provide financial security over a long period. Analysis of the deal structure highlights how it set a new benchmark for quarterback compensation.
Dak Prescott's contract was notable for its high average annual value and guaranteed base. His deal included a $33.5 million signing bonus and a $66 million guarantee at signing. The structure avoided offset language, giving Prescott full control over his earnings. CBS Sports breakdown explains how the terms protected his income against injuries or performance drops.
Impact on the NFL Salary Landscape
The Mahomes and Prescott deals shifted the salary cap landscape for all teams. General managers had to allocate more cap space to secure elite quarterback talent. The average annual value for top quarterbacks rose sharply after these contracts were signed. Spotrac NFL contracts page tracks how these deals influenced subsequent negotiations across the league.
Other high paid quarterbacks in 2019 included Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, and Ben Roethlisberger. Rodgers signed a two year extension with the Green Bay Packers worth up to $110 million. Wilson signed a five year extension with the Seattle Seahawks worth $140 million. ESPN contract details confirm these deals kept several quarterbacks among the highest paid in the league.