In the world of professional football, few players command attention like Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star quarterback. Widely considered one of the league’s top talents, Mahomes has already led his team to the Super Bowl four times in six years and is aiming for his third championship ring. Yet, surprisingly, Mahomes ranks only eighth on the list of the NFL’s highest-paid players by annual average salary, trailing four quarterbacks who have yet to make a Super Bowl appearance.
As Super Bowl LVIII approaches, with Mahomes and the Chiefs set to face the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, fans may be surprised to see where Mahomes falls in the NFL’s salary hierarchy. Here’s a look at the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league by average annual salary as the championship game looms.
10. Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys), Daniel Jones (New York Giants), and Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams) — $40 million/year
Despite the substantial contracts, only Stafford has a Super Bowl ring to his name. Prescott leads one of the NFL’s most high-powered offenses, but the Cowboys once again faced disappointment in the playoffs. For Jones, the season was particularly tough; his performance and season-ending injury have left New York questioning its investment. Meanwhile, Stafford, at 35, is still going strong with the Rams, aiming to keep them in the playoff mix.
9. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills — $43 million/year
The Bills have placed their faith in Josh Allen as the quarterback to take them where Hall of Famer Jim Kelly couldn’t: to a Super Bowl win. Allen has consistently delivered impressive performances since his rookie year, but he has yet to overcome Mahomes in the playoffs. Fans and analysts alike believe he has another level to reach, with expectations high as he continues to compete against the AFC’s elite.
8. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs — $45 million/year
Despite his numerous accolades, including two Super Bowl MVPs, Mahomes’ annual salary is only eighth-highest among quarterbacks. Known for his dynamic, game-changing style, Mahomes has consistently accepted less-than-top market value to allow the Chiefs flexibility in building a strong team around him. Kansas City’s long-term commitment to Mahomes totals $450 million over a 10-year period, showing just how much they value their franchise player.
7. Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns — $46 million/year
Perhaps the most controversial figure on this list, Watson’s time in Cleveland has been marred by suspensions and off-field issues. His dual-threat potential and early-career success once marked him as a rising star, but since joining the Browns, Watson has struggled to meet expectations. The investment in Watson has left some questioning the Browns’ decision-making as he continues to fight for a consistent, healthy return to form.
6. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals — $46.1 million/year
Known for his unique athleticism, Kyler Murray quickly rose as a young star in the NFL. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, he has since delivered both highlights and disappointments for the Cardinals. With recent changes in Arizona’s coaching staff, Murray’s role remains under scrutiny as he works to secure his place as the team’s franchise quarterback, all while carrying one of the league’s highest salaries.
5. Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos — $48 million/year
Once a Super Bowl champion with the Seattle Seahawks, Wilson’s move to Denver has not gone as planned. His performance with the Broncos has been underwhelming, leading to questions about his future despite a high-profile contract. Even under head coach Sean Payton, Wilson has struggled to reclaim his former success, making his contract one of the most debated in the league.
4. Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles — $51 million/year
Initially drafted as a backup, Hurts has since become Philadelphia’s franchise quarterback, proving doubters wrong with his tough, resilient style. Hurts led the Eagles to the Super Bowl in his breakout season, where they fell short against Mahomes’ Chiefs. While Philadelphia faced some setbacks this season, Hurts remains a fan favorite and a valuable asset, with hopes high for a return to the Super Bowl.
3. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens — $52 million/year
After much contract negotiation and serving as his own representative, Lamar Jackson secured a record-breaking contract with the Ravens. Known for his electrifying playstyle and dual-threat ability, Jackson has redefined what it means to be a quarterback. Although he has yet to reach the Super Bowl, Jackson’s MVP-caliber performances make him a cornerstone of Baltimore’s future.
2. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers — $52.5 million/year
Herbert’s hefty contract reflects the Chargers’ belief in his potential, despite limited postseason success. Known for his powerful arm and impressive physicality, Herbert has steadily grown into one of the league’s most promising quarterbacks. With high expectations under a new coaching regime, Herbert is poised to make his mark if he can translate regular-season success into playoff wins.
1. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals — $55 million/year
Topping the list is Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ star who has quickly become one of the NFL’s most valuable players. Known as “Joe Cool,” Burrow signed a contract in 2023 that set a new standard for quarterback salaries, featuring a $40 million signing bonus and $146 million in guaranteed money. With a Super Bowl appearance already under his belt, Burrow is a key rival for Mahomes in the AFC.
Final Thoughts: Mahomes’ Legacy Amid a Changing Salary Landscape
Patrick Mahomes, despite being arguably the most accomplished player on this list, remains only the eighth highest-paid quarterback in terms of annual salary. His willingness to take a slightly lower annual value than others in order to keep the Chiefs competitive highlights his commitment to team success over personal wealth. For fans, this selflessness combined with his exceptional skill solidifies Mahomes as a future Hall of Famer, regardless of his position on the pay scale.
