NFL’s Lucrative Contracts
The world of professional sports has always been synonymous with mind-boggling contracts. These deals not only reflect the players' worth on the field but also the sky-high stakes associated with their performance. Let's delve into some of the recent blockbuster contracts across various sports.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: 5 years, $275 million
Trevor Lawrence inked a 5-year deal worth $275 million with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024. Out of this staggering sum, $200 million is guaranteed, showcasing the franchise's immense trust in their quarterback. In the 2023 season, Lawrence led the Jaguars to an 8-8 record, throwing for 21 touchdowns, the second-most in his career. Over the last two seasons, he accumulated over 8,000 passing yards and 55 combined passing and rushing touchdowns, placing him among the elite company of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jared Goff.
Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: 5 years, $275 million
Joe Burrow's 2023 contract further solidified his position as the cornerstone of the Cincinnati Bengals with a total of $219 million guaranteed. During the 2022-23 season, Burrow led the team to a stellar 12-4 record. His impressive stats included 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, 4,475 passing yards, and a 68.3% completion rate, underscoring both his value and the team's confidence in him.
Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers: 5 years, $170 million
Nick Bosa became the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history with his 2023 deal, which boasts $122.5 million in guaranteed money. The San Francisco 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 with a 5-year contract in 2023 that guarantees 83.3% of its total 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: 5 years, $260 million
Lamar Jackson's 2023 contract with the Baltimore Ravens, which includes $185 million guaranteed, came after extended negotiations. Notably, Jackson, who was the second unanimous selection as NFL MVP, chose to represent himself in these negotiations.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles: 5 years, $255 million
Jalen Hurts' extension signed in 2023 marks a historic first for the franchise with a no-trade clause. With 70.3% of his $255 million contract guaranteed, Hurts aims to build on his success, having led 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 not just for the $230 million guarantee but also for the controversies during his tenure. Watson faced an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals: 5 years, $189.5 million
Kyler Murray's 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: 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 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: 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 occurred 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. 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: 10 years, $700 million
Shohei Ohtani’s 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers signed in 2023 smashed all 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: 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.