The conversation around the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL continues to dominate headlines in 2026 as teams invest heavily in elite signal-callers. Dak Prescott currently leads the pack with a record-breaking $60 million annual salary. Other stars like Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Patrick Mahomes also rank among the league's biggest earners.
Key Takeaways
- Dak Prescott is the highest-paid QB in the NFL by annual average salary, earning about $60 million per year with the Dallas Cowboys.
- Most of the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks have signed massive long-term extensions worth more than $200 million.
- Young quarterbacks like Trevor Lawrence, Jordan Love, and Brock Purdy have quickly secured lucrative contracts after impressive early-career performances.
- NFL quarterback salaries continue to rise due to increasing salary caps, franchise competition, and the growing importance of their role in modern football.
Who Is the Highest-Paid QB in the NFL Right Now? Contracts and Career Highlights
In compiling this list of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL, information was gathered from credible sources such as OverTheCap, Spotrac, and The Sporting News. The figures below are based on reported annual average salaries and publicly available contract details as of 2026. NFL quarterback salaries can change rapidly due to new deals, contract extensions, restructures, and performance bonuses.
15. Sam Darnold ($33.5 Million)
Sam Darnold signed a contract with the Seattle Seahawks that averages around $33.5 million annually. Drafted third overall in 2018, Darnold began his career with the New York Jets before later playing for the Carolina Panthers and the San Francisco 49ers. Although his career started inconsistently, Darnold rebuilt his reputation as a capable starter and reliable veteran quarterback. His resurgence helped him secure another lucrative NFL contract.
14. Matthew Stafford ($40 Million)
Matthew Stafford signed a contract extension with the Los Angeles Rams worth approximately $40 million annually. Stafford was the first overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft and spent most of his career with the Detroit Lions before joining the Rams. One of the NFL's most productive passers, Stafford helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI. He ranks among the league's all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdown passes and is respected for his toughness and arm talent.
13. Daniel Jones ($44 Million)
Daniel Jones reportedly earns around $44 million annually under his current contract, making him one of the NFL's highest-paid quarterbacks. Jones was selected sixth overall in the 2019 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. He showed flashes of athleticism and mobility early in his career. His most notable achievement came when he led the Giants to a playoff victory during the 2022 season. While his career has faced inconsistency and injuries, teams still value his physical tools and experience.
12. Patrick Mahomes ($45 Million)
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes signed a historic 10-year contract worth up to $450 million. His average annual salary is roughly $45 million. Drafted in 2017, Mahomes quickly became the NFL's biggest superstar. His creativity, arm talent, and ability to perform under pressure have made him the centerpiece of the Chiefs' dynasty. He has won multiple NFL MVP awards and Super Bowl titles while earning several Super Bowl MVP honors and is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his generation.
11. Deshaun Watson ($46 Million)
Deshaun Watson signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract with the Cleveland Browns. His annual salary averages around $46 million. Watson began his NFL career with the Houston Texans and quickly emerged as one of the league's top quarterbacks due to his mobility and playmaking ability. He is a multiple-time Pro Bowler and previously led the NFL in passing yards. However, injuries and off-field controversies have significantly affected the later stages of his career.
10. Jalen Hurts ($51 Million)
Jalen Hurts signed a five-year, $255 million extension with the Philadelphia Eagles worth about $51 million annually. He entered the NFL in 2020 and steadily developed into one of the league's most complete quarterbacks. He guided the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance and has earned Pro Bowl recognition. Hurts is particularly known for his rushing touchdowns and clutch performances in big games.
9. Lamar Jackson ($52 Million)
Lamar Jackson signed a five-year, $260 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, averaging $52 million annually. He was drafted in the first round in 2018 and revolutionized the quarterback position with his elite rushing ability. A multiple-time MVP winner and Pro Bowler, Jackson has led the Ravens to several division titles and playoff appearances. He became the youngest unanimous NFL MVP in 2019.
8. Justin Herbert ($52.5 Million)
Justin Herbert signed a five-year, $262.5 million extension with the Los Angeles Chargers that averages $52.5 million per season. Drafted sixth overall in 2020, Herbert made an immediate impact by winning the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He is known for his elite arm strength, high passing volume, and ability to make difficult throws. He has broken several NFL passing records for quarterbacks early in their careers and has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections.
7. Jared Goff ($53 Million)
Jared Goff signed a four-year, $212 million extension with the Detroit Lions worth around $53 million annually. The first overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Goff initially rose to prominence with the Los Angeles Rams, leading them to a Super Bowl appearance before being traded to Detroit. In Detroit, Goff revitalized his career and helped transform the Lions into playoff contenders. He has earned multiple Pro Bowl honors and is recognized for his efficiency and strong command of the offense.
6. Brock Purdy ($53 Million)
Brock Purdy signed a five-year, $265 million extension with the San Francisco 49ers, giving him an annual average salary of approximately $53 million. He entered the NFL as the final pick in the 2022 draft, famously earning the nickname "Mr. Irrelevant." He helped the 49ers reach deep playoff runs and a Super Bowl appearance while posting some of the league's best passer ratings. Purdy's rise from last draft pick to elite-paid quarterback is one of the NFL's most remarkable stories.
5. Jordan Love ($55 Million)
Jordan Love agreed to a four-year, $220 million contract with the Green Bay Packers, averaging $55 million annually. The extension came after his breakout first season as Green Bay's starting quarterback. Drafted in the first round in 2020, Love spent several seasons learning behind Aaron Rodgers before taking over as the Packers' starter. He quickly emerged as one of the NFL's rising stars by leading Green Bay to the playoffs and producing one of the league's most efficient offenses. His strong debut as a starter justified the Packers' long-term investment.
4. Trevor Lawrence ($55 Million)
Trevor Lawrence signed a five-year, $275 million extension with the Jacksonville Jaguars, earning an average salary of $55 million per year. Lawrence entered the NFL as the first overall pick in 2021 after a stellar college career at Clemson. He was viewed as one of the best quarterback prospects of his generation. Since joining the Jaguars, Lawrence has helped lead the team back to the playoffs and earned a Pro Bowl selection. His combination of size, mobility, and arm talent has made him one of the league's most promising young stars.
3. Joe Burrow ($55 Million)
Joe Burrow's five-year, $275 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals averages $55 million annually. Selected first overall in the 2020 NFL Draft, Burrow quickly became the centerpiece of Cincinnati's resurgence. He has led the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance and multiple playoff victories. He is also a comeback player of the year winner and has posted several elite passing seasons with top-tier efficiency.
2. Josh Allen ($55 Million)
Josh Allen signed a six-year, $330 million extension with the Buffalo Bills, carrying an annual average salary of roughly $55 million. His contract also includes one of the largest guaranteed amounts in NFL history. Drafted seventh overall in 2018, Allen developed into one of the NFL's premier dual-threat quarterbacks. His career highlights include an NFL MVP award, several Pro Bowl appearances, multiple AFC East titles, and numerous playoff runs. Allen regularly ranks among league leaders in passing touchdowns and total offensive yards.
1. Dak Prescott ($60 Million)
Dak Prescott signed a four-year, $240 million extension with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, giving him an average annual salary of about $60 million, the highest among NFL quarterbacks in 2026. The deal reaffirmed Dallas' commitment to Prescott as the face of the franchise. Prescott entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick in 2016. He won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and has led the Cowboys to multiple playoff appearances. Among his notable achievements are several Pro Bowl selections, multiple 4,000-yard passing seasons, and becoming one of the fastest quarterbacks in league history to reach major passing milestones.
Who Is the Highest-Paid Quarterback in NFL History?
Dak Prescott is currently the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history. In late 2024, Prescott signed a four-year, $240 million extension with the Dallas Cowboys that pays him an average of $60 million per year. This surpassed the previous high-water mark of $55 million held by players like Joe Burrow and Trevor Lawrence.
Is Brock Purdy the Highest-Paid QB?
While Brock Purdy is among the top earners, he is not currently the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL. Following his blockbuster five-year, $265 million extension signed in May 2025, Purdy earns an average of $53 million per year. This puts him in a tie for the 6th highest-paid quarterback in the league.
Which Quarterback Has the Most Guaranteed Money?
Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills leads the league in total guarantees. His contract, signed in March 2025, includes $250 million in total guaranteed money. He is followed closely by Deshaun Watson ($230 million fully guaranteed) and Dak Prescott ($229 million).
The highest-paid QBs in NFL rankings continue to reflect the growing value of elite quarterbacks in modern football. From Dak Prescott to Patrick Mahomes, these players have earned massive contracts through exceptional performances and leadership. As the league evolves, quarterback salaries are expected to rise even higher in the coming years.
