Highest-Paid NFL Players Of All Time

Michael Thomas - Career earnings of $72,520,383

A wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints, Michael Thomas holds the record for the most receptions by a player in a single season.

Voted the NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 2019, Thomas has amassed an impressive $72,520,383 since he was first drafted to the NFL.

Randall Cobb - Career earnings of $72,506,334

After playing college football for several years at at Kentucky University, Randall Cobb attracted the attention of the Green Bay Packers, who signed him in 2011.

Cobb currently plays as a wide receiver for the New York Jets, and he's earned $72,506,334 so far in his career.

Bud Dupree - Career earnings of $72,506,334

Bud Dupree made a name for himself as an emerging talent while playing college football at Kentucky University, and he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015.

Since then, Dupree - who has earned $72,506,334 so far - has played for both the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons, for whom he currently plays as a linebacker.

Jack Conklin - Career earnings of $73,193,306

Although he was also a promising basketball player at college, Jack Conklin ultimately decided to pursue a career in football, a move which has definitely paid off.

Since he was first drafted as an offensive tackler for the Cleveland Browns in 2013, Conklin has earned a total of $73,193,306.

Denzel Ward - Career earnings of $73,593,903

While attending high school in Ohio, Denzel Ward played football, basketball and ran track. In the end, Ward settled on a career in football.

He was soon drafted by the Ohio Browns. Ward continues to play as a wide receiver for the team, and he's made $73,593,903 so far, a number that's guaranteed to grow.

Ezekiel Elliott - Career earnings $73,668,561

Ezekiel Elliott - or “Zeke” to his teammates - was signed by the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL’s 2016 draft. 

Elliott has played as a running back with the Cowboys for seven seasons - during which time he’s been selected for three Pro Bowl teams - and he’s earned $73,668,561.

Adam Thielen - Career earnings $75,131,94

Since signing with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent in 2013, Adam Thielen has set a number of NFL records with his incredibly precise receptions. 

In 2023, Thielen - who has made $75,131,94 from his NFL career - left the Vikings, signing with the Carolina Panthers as a wide receiver.

Carlos Dunlap - Career earnings $81,140,148

Carlos Dunlap has remained a free agent throughout much of his career, lending his services as a formidable defensive end to a number of teams. 

This has proved to be a lucrative strategy, with Dunlap - who most recently played for the Kansas City Chiefs - amassing a fortune of $81,140,148.

Eric Fisher - Career earnings $82,373,458

Although Eric Fisher is currently a free agent, he’s played as an offensive tackle for a number of the NFL’s top teams. 

Fisher - who was part of the Kansas City Chief’s Super Bowl winning team in 2019 - has earned $82,373,458 throughout his career.

Jimmy Graham - Career earnings $82,871,200

After playing college basketball for a number of years, Jimmy Graham switched to football. Within a year he was signed to the New Orleans Saints. 

Although Graham left the Saints for a number of years, he’s back with the team as their tight end, and he’s made $82,871,200 across his career.

Jadeveon Clowney- Career earnings $83,057,740

After winning the Ted Hendricks Award while playing for the University of South Carolina, Jadeveon Clowney was quickly signed to the Baltimore Ravens as a linebacker. 

Clowney’s distinguished career - which has seen him selected for three different Pro Bowl teams - has made him $83,057,740 richer.

Frank Clark - Career earnings $83,216,628

Frank Clark’s killer instincts as a linebacker have earned him the nickname “The Shark,” a moniker he frequently lives up to. 

Clark - who signed with the Seattle Seahawks in 2023 - has so far amassed $83,216,628 from his NFL career, although he’s made considerably more when you factor in endorsements.

Lavonte David - Career earnings $83,247,757

Since joining the NFL in 2012, Lavonte David has been selected for three All-Pro teams, and he won the 2020 Super Bowl with the Kansas City Chiefs. 

David is currently a free agent, with his most recent stint with the Miami Dolphins bringing his career-total earnings to $83,247,757.

Nick Bosa - Career earnings $84,666,248

Despite the fact that he only joined the NFL in 2019, Nick Bosa has already made $84,666,248 from his football career. 

In the first year, Bosa was named NFL Rookie of the Year, and he’s since become one the San Francisco 49ers’ most valuable defensive ends.

Arik Armstead - Career earnings $85,266,547

After developing a reputation as one of the most formidable defensive tackles in the college football league, Arik Armstead was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers.

Armstead has played with the team ever since they signed him in 2015, and has earned $85,266,547 in salary along the way.

Chris Jones - Career earnings of $85,922,958

Despite an extremely unfortunate wardrobe malfunction during his trials, Chris Jones was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016.

With two Super Bowl victories under his belt and career earnings of $85,922,958, Jones is currently considered one of the best defensive tackles in the world.

Kevin Zeitler - Career earnings of $86,114,200

Kevin Zeitler has played for some of the most respected teams in the NFL, including the New York Giants and the Cleveland Browns.

Zeitler - who has earned $86,114,200 so far in the NFL - currently plays as a guard for the Baltimore Ravens. 

Xavien Howard - Career earnings of $86,594,446

Xavien Howard was signed by the Miami Dolphins in 2016, and he's played for them as a cornerback ever since.

Howard - who has been paid $86,594,446 by the Dolphins since he joined them - has been the NFL's interceptions leader in two separate seasons.

Harrison Smith - Career earnings of $87,480,243

In 2017, Harrison Smith was graded as the third best player in the NFL, adding another accolade to his incredibly impressive record.  

Smith currently plays as a safety for the Minnesota Vikings, although his total career earnings of $87,480,243 have come from a number of teams.

Jerry Hughes - Career earnings of $89,234,385

While his athletic record at high school wasn't considered particularly impressive, Jerry Hughes improved dramatically while attending college, and he was signed by the Indianapolis Colts in 2010.

Hughes currently plays as a defensive end for the Houston Texans, and he's made an awe-inspiring $89,234,385 throughout his 13-year career.

T.J. Watt - Career earnings of $89,852,038

T.J. Watt has been considered one of the NFL's best linebackers since he joined the league in 2017, and in 2021 he was crowned Defensive Player of the Year.

Watt has played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the entirety of his professional career, and he's made a staggering $89,852,038 to date.

 Grady Jarrett - Career earnings of $89,859,675

A talented wrestler and track and field athlete at college, Grady Jarrett ultimately decided to go the football route, signing to the NFL in 2015. 

Jarrett has played as a defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons throughout his career, and has earned $89,859,675 so far.

Tyrann Mathieu - Career earnings of $91,094,901

Nicknamed "The Honey Badger" for the ferocity with which he exerts pressure on his opponents, Tyrann Mathieu is considered one of the best safeties currently playing in the NFL.

Mathieu joined the New Orleans Saints in 2022, signing a lucrative contract that boosted his overall career total earnings to $91,094,901.

Danielle Hunter - Career earnings of $91,864,477

Born in Jamaica, Danielle Hunter moved to the United States at the age of eight, and it didn't take long for coaches at his school to notice his athletic talent.

Hunter has earned $91,864,477 so far in his NFL, and he's played for the Minnesota Vikings since they signed him in 2015.

Jalen Ramsey - Career earnings of $92,141,078

Drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, It didn't long for Jalen Ramsey to prove himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.

In 2020, Ramsey signed a deal with the Los Angeles Rams that made him the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL and took his career earnings to $92,141,078.

Tyreek Hill - Career earnings of $93,489,171

An accomplished track and field athlete, Tyreek Hill's explosive power and speed has made him of the NFL's most valuable wide receivers.

After playing with the Kansas City Chiefs for a number of years, Hill signed to the Miami Dolphins in 2022, taking his career earnings to $93,489,171.

Brandon Graham - Career earnings of $93,755,925

A veteran of the NFL, Brandon Graham has played for the Philadelphia Eagles since 2010, earning $93,755,925 in the process.

Graham made a vital play in the closing moments of Super Bowl LII, which resulted in the Eagles snagging their first ever Super Bowl victory.

Zack Martin - Career earnings of $93,985,531

Zack Martin's reputation as one of the most solid guards in the NFL is reflected in his eight Pro Bowl team selections.

Martin still plays for the Dallas Cowboys 11 years after they brought him into the NFL, and he's earned $93,985,531 while with the team.

DeForest Buckner - Career earnings of $94,342,973

DeForest Buckner's natural footballing talent was first recognized while he was attending Punahou School in the Hawaiian capital of Honolulu. 

Buckner - who has earned $94,342,973 thus far - was first signed by the San Francisco 49ers, but he currently plays as a defensive tackle for the Indianapolis Colts.

Laremy Tunsil - Career earnings of $102,746,805

In 2016, Laremy Tunsil made the decision to drop out of college and enter the NFL Draft. The risk paid off, and he was signed by the Miami Dolphins.

Since then, Tunsil has proved himself as one of the most ferocious offensive tackles in the game, and he's earned himself $102,746,805 along the way.

Fletcher Cox - Career earnings of $125,890,246

Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, has carved a remarkable career in the NFL. Known for his exceptional strength and agility, Cox has been a dominant force on the field and earned numerous accolades.

These include being crowned Super Bowl champion and six-time Pro Bowl selection. With career earnings totaling $125,890,246 making him one of the league's highest-earners.

Tony Romo - Career earnings of $127,422,458

Tony Romo, the former quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, boasts a storied NFL career. With total earnings from the game standing at $127,422,458, Romo led the Cowboys to several playoff appearances during his tenure.

Renowned for his precision and leadership on the field, he earned four Pro Bowl selections. Post-retirement, Romo transitioned seamlessly into a successful broadcasting career, becoming a prominent NFL commentator.

David Bakhtiari - Career earnings of $127,422,458

David Bakhtiari, the Green Bay Packers' standout offensive tackle, has left an indelible mark on the NFL.

With a distinguished career and earnings of $127,422,458, Bakhtiari is known for his exceptional blocking skills, earning him three Pro Bowl selections. A key player in the Packers' success, he played a crucial role in their playoff runs.

Joey Bosa - Career earnings of $127,894,417

Joey Bosa, the Los Angeles Chargers' star defensive end, has enjoyed a stellar NFL career. Accumulating a still-to-be-added-to $127,894,417 so far, Bosa's impact on the field is remarkable.

Known for his relentless pass-rushing abilities, he's a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a force to be reckoned with in the league.

Carson Wentz - Career earnings of $128,659,340

Talented quarterback Carson Wentz has had a lucrative NFL career, amassing a whopping $128,659,340. He started with the Philadelphia Eagles, leading them to a Super Bowl win, although he was injured for the game.

Wentz went on to showcase his skills with multiple Pro Bowl appearances. His versatility and leadership led him to the Indianapolis Colts, where he continued to make a significant impact.

J.J. Watt - Career earnings of $129,748,000

J.J. Watt, the iconic defensive end, has had an illustrious NFL career, which has saw him collect earnings of $129,748,000. Known for his unmatched intensity and disruptive defensive play, Watt earned five Pro Bowl selections and became a three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

He's a former Houston Texans' standout and later joined the Arizona Cardinals.

Sam Bradford - Career earnings of $130,022,863

Seasoned quarterback Sam Bradford has had a substantial NFL career with total earnings reaching $130,022,863.

He began with the St. Louis Rams as the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Bradford showcased his skills with various teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles and the Minnesota Vikings.

Chandler Jones - Career earnings of $131,124,510

Chandler Jones, the prolific pass-rushing defensive end, has made a huge impact in the NFL, earning $131,124,510 along the way.

Known for his exceptional speed and agility, Jones has been named to the Pro Bowl multiple times and earned All-Pro honors. His impressive career includes stints with the New England Patriots and the Arizona Cardinals.

Cam Newton - Career earnings of $133,545,071

As a dynamic quarterback, Cam Newton boasts a remarkable NFL career, amassing huge earnings of $133,545,071. Newton started with the Carolina Panthers, earning NFL MVP honors in 2015 while leading the team to a Super Bowl appearance.

He later joined the New England Patriots, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.

Patrick Mahomes - Career earnings of $136,254,472

Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs' star quarterback, has had a phenomenal NFL career, and his dedication to the Chiefs has saw him pocket $136,254,472.

In a short span, Mahomes has achieved tremendous success, winning the NFL MVP award, leading the Chiefs to multiple AFC Championships, and securing a Super Bowl victory.

Calais Campbell - Career earnings of $141,591,393

Calais Campbell, the dominant defensive end, has enjoyed a distinguished NFL career, seeing his earnings total $141,591,393.

With multiple Pro Bowl selections and an NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, Campbell has made a significant impact on the field. He showcased his skills with the Arizona Cardinals, Jacksonville Jaguars, and later, the Baltimore Ravens.

Brett Favre - Career earnings of $141,829,000

Legendary quarterback Brett Favre had an illustrious NFL career, and is sitting on a $141,829,000 fortune. Favre, known for his remarkable durability, arm strength, and leadership, played the majority of his career with the Green Bay Packers.

With the Packers, he achieved numerous accolades, including three NFL MVP awards and a Super Bowl championship. His impact also extended to the New York Jets and the Minnesota Vikings.

Deshaun Watson - Career earnings of $142,762,978

Deshaun Watson has rapidly risen in the NFL, and his $142,762,978 earnings reflect that. The quarterback is known for his exceptional passing accuracy and agility.

Before joining the Cleveland Browns, Watson played for the Houston Texans and despite facing challenges, he earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, showcasing his talent on the field.

Julio Jones - Career earnings of $148,373,021

Julio Jones has had a stellar NFL career, and has earnings totaling $148,373,021. Known for his incredible speed, precise route-running, and remarkable catches, the wide-reciever made his mark primarily with the Atlanta Falcons before joining the Tennessee Titans.

A seven-time Pro Bowl selection and an All-Pro, Jones has consistently been one of the league's top receivers.

Jimmy Garoppolo - Career earnings of $149,567,439

Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has had a successful NFL career, accumulating significant earnings totaling $149,567,439.

Garoppolo started his career as a backup with the New England Patriots, where he won two Super Bowl rings, before becoming the San Francisco 49ers' starting quarterback.

Khalil Mack - Career earnings of $150,345,498

Dominant defensive force Khalil Mack has achieved remarkable success in the NFL, pocketing substantial earnings of $150,345,498. Mack's impact on the field is unparalleled.

He's earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors, as well as a Super Bowl championship.

Aaron Donald - Career earnings of $157,114,238

Aaron Donald, the powerhouse defensive tackle, has left an indelible mark on the NFL, and has earned a life changing $157,114,238.

Donald's unparalleled skills have earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Pro Bowl selections, NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, and a Super Bowl championship.

Jared Goff - Career earnings of $161,016,068

Jared Goff, the talented quarterback, has had a lucrative NFL career, accumulating substantial earnings of $161,016,068.

Goff began his journey with the Los Angeles Rams, leading them to a Super Bowl appearance. He later joined the Detroit Lions, showcasing his passing prowess and strategic acumen.

Dak Prescott - Career earnings of $162,317,825

Quarterback Dak Prescott has had a highly successful NFL career, both in terms of his play and his play. With $162,317,825 in the bank, Prescott shows no signs of slowing down.

Prescott, known for his leadership and accurate passing, has been a vital player for the Dallas Cowboys. Despite overcoming injuries, he displayed remarkable resilience, earning Pro Bowl selections and leading the Cowboys to playoff appearances.

Julius Peppers - Career earnings of $164,973,786

Julius Peppers, the legendary defensive end, had a distinguished NFL career, collecting $164,973,786 along the way. Peppers was a force to be reckoned with on the field, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections.

He also became one of the league's all-time sack leaders. He showcased his skills with the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, and later, the Carolina Panthers again.

Derek Carr - Career earnings of $165,666,395

Derek Carr, the accomplished quarterback, has had a successful NFL career, and has significant earnings of $165,666,395 to show for it.

Carr had been a vital player for the Las Vegas Raiders before his move to the Saints, showcasing his strong arm and strategic prowess on the field. His remarkable passing records and leadership qualities have earned him Pro Bowl selections.

Ndamukong Suh - Career earnings of $168,165,157

Ndamukong Suh has had an outstanding NFL career, amassing substantial earnings totaling $168,165,157. Known for his brute strength and disruptive play, Suh has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.

The defensive tackle displayed his skills with the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, contributing significantly to each team before retiring at the Eagles.

Trent Williams - Career earnings of $168,790,970

Trent Williams's dominance on the gridiron has seen him earn $168,790,970. Williams is renowned for his exceptional blocking abilities and durability on the field, earning numerous Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors.

He showcased his skills primarily with the Washington Football Team before joining the San Francisco 49ers.

Carson Palmer - Career earnings of $174,148,722

Quarterback Carson Palmer had a prolific NFL career, which has seen him pocket a massive $174,148,722. Known for his precision passing and leadership, Palmer played for the Cincinnati Bengals, Oakland Raiders, and Arizona Cardinals.

He earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and led the Cardinals to the NFC Championship game.

Joe Flacco - Career earnings of $174,383,819

Super Bowl MVP quarterback Joe Flacco has had a remarkable NFL career, which has been rewarded with earnings of $174,383,819. Flacco was a pivotal player for the Baltimore Ravens.

His time with the team lead them to a Super Bowl victory, as well as earning Super Bowl MVP honors. He showcased his strong arm and clutch performances, securing multiple playoff wins.

Von Miller - Career earnings of $179,385,534

Von Miller, the exceptional line-backer, has made a lasting impact in the NFL, accumulating impressive earnings of around $179,385,534. Known for his incredible speed and skill at sacking quarterbacks, Miller played a pivotal role in the Denver Broncos' Super Bowl 50 victory, earning Super Bowl MVP honors.

He earned multiple Pro Bowl selections for the Broncos, Rams and now, The Bills.

Larry Fitzgerald - Career earnings of $180,757,239

Larry Fitzgerald has seen his remarkable NFL career complimented by his massive earnings of $180,757,239. Fitzgerald was a cornerstone player for the Arizona Cardinals, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and becoming one of the league's all-time leading receivers.

Known for his exceptional catching ability and sportsmanship, he was a key player in the Cardinals' success.

Alex Smith - Career earnings of $189,725,000

Alex Smith, the resilient quarterback, has amassed a total of $189,725,000 in earnings. Smith showcased his leadership and determination with the San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Washington Football Team.

Despite facing challenges, including a severe leg injury, he made a triumphant return to the field.

Ryan Tannehill - Career earnings of $195,975,979

Over the years, quarterback Ryan Tannehill has collected a cool $195,975,979. Tannehill revitalized his career with the Tennessee Titans, leading them to playoff appearances and demonstrating his passing prowess.

Known for his accuracy and decision-making, he earned Pro Bowl selections and played a pivotal role in the Titans' offensive strategy.

Kirk Cousins - Career earnings of $231,669,486

Kirk Cousins's lucrative career has seen him break the $200 million mark, with earnings coming in at $231,669,486. Cousins has been a reliable player for the Washington Football Team and the Minnesota Vikings, showcasing his accurate passing and strategic acumen.

He earned Pro Bowl selections and consistently led his teams to competitive performances.

Philip Rivers - Career earnings of $243,944,322

Philip Rivers carved an illustrious path in the NFL, amassing a substantial fortune totaling $243,944,322. Renowned for his astute decision-making and pinpoint passing, Rivers made significant impacts with the San Diego Chargers (later the Los Angeles Chargers) and the Indianapolis Colts.

His accolades include multiple Pro Bowl selections, and he stood as one of the league's top passers throughout his career.

Peyton Manning - Career earnings of $248,732,000

Peyton Manning's remarkable fortune sits at $248,732,000. The quarterback, who is known for his unparalleled football IQ and precision passing, played the majority of his career with the Indianapolis Colts and later with the Denver Broncos.

He lead both teams to Super Bowl victories, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in NFL history.

Eli Manning - Career earnings of $252,280,004

Quarterback Eli Manning sits on a fortune of over a quarter of a billion dollars with his earnings totaling $252,280,004 throughout his illustrious NFL journey.

Renowned for his clutch performances and two Super Bowl MVP titles, Manning became synonymous with the New York Giants franchise. The debate still remains as to who was the best quarterback though, Eli, or his older brother Peyton.

Russell Wilson - Career earnings of $266,362,520

During his outstanding NFL career, quarterback Russell Wilson accumulated significant wealth of $266,362,520. Known for his exceptional mobility and clutch performances, Wilson led the Seattle Seahawks to multiple playoff appearances, including a Super Bowl victory.

With numerous Pro Bowl selections and records, Wilson's impact on the field has been profound.

Ben Roethlisberger - Career earnings of $267,286,864

Ben 'Big Ben' Roethlisberger has amassed an impressive fortune of $267,286,864 during his illustrious NFL tenure. Renowned for his toughness and exceptional passing abilities, Roethlisberger led the Pittsburgh Steelers to multiple Super Bowl appearances, securing two championship titles.

His list of accolades includes numerous Pro Bowl selections and records.

Drew Brees - Career earnings of $269,710,422

Drew Brees amassed a staggering fortune totaling $269,710,422 throughout his illustrious NFL career. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and remarkable leadership, Brees became a cornerstone player for the New Orleans Saints, leading them to their first Super Bowl victory in 2010.

With numerous Pro Bowl selections and records, Brees' impact on the game was unparalleled.

Matt Ryan - Career earnings of $303,713,631

Matt Ryan boasts an eye-watering $303,713,631 to his name. Known for his strategic prowess and remarkable consistency, Ryan played a vital role for the Atlanta Falcons, leading them to multiple playoff appearances.

This included a Super Bowl appearance in 2017, before Ryan joined the Colts for a year in 2022.

Matthew Stafford - Career earnings of $328,306,037

Quarterback Matthew Stafford has amassed a crazy amount in earnings throughout his NFL career, totaling $328,306,037. Known for his cannon arm and exceptional decision-making, Stafford became a cornerstone player for the Detroit Lions before joining the Los Angeles Rams.

With numerous Pro Bowl selections and records, Stafford's impact on the game was undeniable, and his fortune is well-deserved.

Tom Brady - Career earnings of $332,962,392

The unparalleled Tom Brady stands as the epitome of excellence in the NFL, amassing a staggering fortune totaling $332,962,392 throughout his illustrious career.

With seven Super Bowl championships, five Super Bowl MVP awards, and numerous NFL records, Brady's achievements are nothing short of legendary.

Aaron Rodgers - Career earnings of $342,496,898

Aaron Rodgers, the NFL's top earner, has not only left an indelible mark on the NFL but has also earned a fortune of $342,496,898 over the years.

With multiple NFL MVP awards and a Super Bowl MVP title, Rodgers' achievements on the field are unparalleled. His remarkable accuracy, football IQ, and clutch performances have made him one of the league's all-time greats.