NFL's Lucrative Contracts
When it comes to lucrative contracts in the sports world, the NFL has seen some astronomical figures in recent years. Here's a detailed look at some of the biggest deals that have made headlines and reshaped the league.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 years, $275 million
Signed in 2024, Trevor Lawrence's contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars includes a whopping $200 million in guaranteed money. This significant commitment underscores the team's faith in Lawrence, who led the Jaguars to an 8-8 record in the 2023 season. Throwing for 21 touchdowns, the second-most of his career, Lawrence has firmly established himself as a key player. Over the past two seasons, he amassed over 8,000 passing yards and 55 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, joining elite company like 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. Burrow's performance in the 2022-23 season was stellar, leading the Bengals to a 12-4 record. He threw for 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, passed for 4,475 yards, and completed 68.3% of his passes, highlighting his value to the team and their confidence in him.
Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers: 5 years, $170 million
In 2023, Nick Bosa secured a deal with the San Francisco 49ers making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. His contract includes $122.5 million guaranteed. Bosa's outstanding performance—earning him the Defensive Player of the Year award and leading the league with 18.5 sacks—justifies this enormous investment.
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers: 5 years, $262.5 million
The Los Angeles Chargers secured Justin Herbert in 2023 with a 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 stands as the highest in NFL history.
Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: 5 years, $260 million
Lamar Jackson's contract with the Baltimore Ravens, which includes $185 million guaranteed, was signed after a protracted negotiation period in 2023. Jackson, a former unanimous NFL MVP, chose to represent himself in these negotiations, showcasing his belief in his own value and capabilities.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles: 5 years, $255 million
Jalen Hurts' extension with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 includes a first in franchise history—a no-trade clause. With 70.3% of his $255 million contract 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
Despite the controversies and an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, Deshaun Watson's 2022 contract with the Cleveland Browns stands out for its $230 million guarantee. This contract remains a topic of discussions for its financial implications and off-field issues.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals: 5 years, $189.5 million
Kyler Murray's deal, signed in 2022, includes an impressive 82.2% in guaranteed money. However, his promising season was cut short due to injury, contributing to the Cardinals' struggles and a 4-13 record.
Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos: 5 years, $161 million
Russell Wilson's 2022 contract with the Denver Broncos might go down as one of the worst trades and contracts in NFL history if his first season’s performance is any indicator. Wilson struggled significantly, barely completing 60% of his passes and throwing just 16 touchdowns.
Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers: 3 years, $150.8 million
Aaron Rodgers' 2022 contract with the Green Bay Packers made him one of the highest-paid athletes annually. Despite this lucrative deal, Rodgers now plays for the New York Jets following a trade that came after a lackluster season with the Packers.
Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: 6 years, $150 million
Josh Allen's extension, signed in 2021, guarantees him $150 million. Over the past two years, he has demonstrated his worth by throwing for over 9,306 yards and 74 touchdowns, proving his invaluable contribution 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 shattered predictions, cementing his status as arguably the best player in baseball. Despite an elbow injury that will sideline him as a pitcher next season, Ohtani aims to help the Dodgers 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 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: 5 years, $304 million
Jaylen Brown's 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: 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.