The NFL is known for its lucrative contracts, especially when top players sign new deals. Recently, Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon became the highest-paid cornerback in league history.
Witherspoon agreed to a four-year contract worth $132 million, including more than $101 million in guarantees. This new contract makes him the highest-paid player at his position, not only currently but of all time.
His contract averages $33 million per year, surpassing Denzel Ward’s $31 million per season with the Cleveland Browns. Witherspoon’s earnings eclipse those of many wide receivers and quarterbacks he defends against.
To put his contract in perspective: Witherspoon earns more annually than Aaron Rodgers with the Pittsburgh Steelers, who averages $22 million, and more than Kirk Cousins with the Las Vegas Raiders, who earns $11.3 million per year.
Although Baker Mayfield receives $33.3 million annually from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Witherspoon’s total guarantees of $101 million far exceed Mayfield’s $50 million.
In comparison, Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold signed a deal last season averaging $33.5 million annually with $55 million in guarantees. Witherspoon’s guarantees surpass this figure significantly, placing him in a similar earning bracket with top quarterbacks.
The NFL’s financial landscape shows no signs of slowing down. Witherspoon’s contract sets a precedent, and it suggests bigger deals might follow. Across the country, the New England Patriots and cornerback Christian Gonzalez have been negotiating a new contract.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft indicated they were prepared to make Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback. The race between Gonzalez and Witherspoon for a record contract concluded with Witherspoon sealing the deal first.
For top NFL players, securing the next sizable contract is a common goal, and Gonzalez will now aim to surpass Witherspoon’s record-setting deal.
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