Highest Paid Quarterbacks by Average Annual Value
The highest paid quarterbacks are determined by average annual value (AAV) of their contracts, which includes base salary, signing bonuses, and guaranteed money spread over the deal's life. The top contracts consistently feature elite passers with proven Super Bowl success and massive market leverage. For the latest detailed contract breakdowns, see the latest analysis from Forbes.
These figures represent the current cap hits and total earnings as reported by the NFL Players Association and team filings. The rankings reflect the most recent contract extensions and new deals signed through the current league year.
Top 10 Paid Quarterbacks List
1. Josh Allen
Allen holds the largest contract in NFL history by total value, with a deal that includes significant guarantees and escalators tied to performance metrics.
2. Jalen Hurts
Hurts signed a massive extension that makes him the second highest paid player in the league, reflecting his dual-threat capabilities and leadership.
3. Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes' extension solidified his position among the top earners, with a structure that includes record-breaking incentives and a large signing bonus.
4. Joe Burrow
Burrow's contract ranks highly due to his immediate impact and franchise quarterback status following his MVP-caliber season.
5. Dak Prescott
Prescott's deal was the first of its kind in terms of average annual value when signed, setting a new benchmark for the position.
6. Deshaun Watson
Watson's guaranteed money and total payout place him on this list despite his current roster status, reflecting the terms of his agreement.
7. Jared Goff
Goff's extension provides a high AAV, securing his role as a franchise quarterback with a fully guaranteed base salary.
8. Trevor Lawrence
Lawrence's rookie contract extension places him among the highest paid young quarterbacks, with a structure designed to reward long-term performance.
9. Lamar Jackson
Jackson's deal reflects his unique dual-threat value, with a significant portion of his compensation tied to passing and rushing milestones.
10. Justin Herbert
Herbert's contract ranks in the top ten based on AAV, highlighting his rapid ascent as a franchise cornerstone in Los Angeles.
Financial Impact and Contract Structures
Quarterback contracts often include complex structures such as void years, escalators, and roster bonuses designed to manage salary cap space. The total guaranteed money is a critical factor that distinguishes these deals from standard player contracts. For official financial disclosures and filings, the SEC provides access to relevant documents for publicly traded sports entities.
The salary cap implications of these deals force teams to make strategic decisions about roster construction and cap management. These contracts often set the market benchmark for all other positions, influencing the overall financial landscape of the league.