The NFL is one of the most competitive and high-paying sports leagues in the world. Fans often wonder about the average salary of an NFL player, especially the earnings of star athletes. While league averages give a general idea, the reality for top performers is much different. Understanding what star players really make helps fans and aspiring athletes see how experience, position, and contract negotiations shape total earnings in professional football.
Average Salary of an NFL Player
As of 2026, the average salary of an NFL player is approximately $3.5 million per year, according to financial tracking sources, including Crix. This number includes base salaries, signing bonuses, and guaranteed money but does not account for endorsements or incentives. While the average is informative, it masks the wide gap between rookies, average players, and superstar athletes. Star quarterbacks and wide receivers often earn several times the league average through high-value contracts and performance bonuses.
Star Player Salaries
Star NFL players, particularly quarterbacks, earn the highest salaries. Contracts for elite players like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen can exceed $40 million per year. Top wide receivers and defensive stars also earn multi-million-dollar deals. These high salaries include base pay, signing bonuses, roster bonuses, and guaranteed money. Star player contracts dramatically skew the average salary of an NFL player, making it appear higher than what most players actually earn in the league.
How Contracts Affect Earnings
Contracts play a critical role in determining what star players make. Guaranteed money ensures income even if injuries occur. Performance incentives reward players for stats like touchdowns, yards, or Pro Bowl selections. Longer contracts provide financial stability, while renegotiations and extensions allow stars to increase earnings further. Understanding these contract structures helps explain why top players earn dramatically more than the league average.
Other Sources of Income for Stars
Many star NFL owner supplement their salaries with endorsements, sponsorships, media appearances, and business ventures. High-profile athletes often earn millions more off the field through brand deals and investments. Although not included in official salary reports, these revenues can sometimes surpass their on-field earnings. Considering both contract pay and additional income is essential to understanding what star NFL players really make in total.
Key Points About Star NFL Salaries
Star players earn well above the $3.5 million league average
Quarterbacks are typically the highest-paid athletes
Contracts include base salary, signing bonuses, and guaranteed money
Performance incentives reward milestones and stats
Endorsements and business ventures often exceed contract earnings
Conclusion
The average salary of an NFL player: what star players really make shows a stark contrast between top athletes and the rest of the league. While the league average is around $3.5 million, elite quarterbacks and wide receivers can earn tens of millions annually. Contract structure, performance incentives, and off-field revenue all contribute to their total earnings. Understanding these factors helps fans and aspiring athletes appreciate the financial realities of professional football at the highest level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the average salary of an NFL player in 2026?
It is estimated at about $3.5 million per year.
Q. How much do star players earn compared to the average?
Star players, especially quarterbacks, can earn tens of millions annually.
Q. What factors contribute to higher earnings for star NFL players?
Contracts, guaranteed money, bonuses, endorsements, and business ventures.
Q. Do rookie players earn as much as star athletes?
No, rookies usually earn significantly less than top players.
Q. Can endorsements surpass on-field earnings for NFL stars?
Yes, many star players earn more off-field than through their contracts.
