The highest-paid non quarterback players in the NFL represent a rapidly evolving mix of pass rushers, elite skill players, and dominant interior linemen. As teams prioritize versatile and high-impact talent, these positions command record averages and annual guarantees that rival many quarterback deals.
This overview highlights the top earners outside the quarterback room, identifying who leads the league in annual money, how contracts compare year over year, and which franchises are investing the heaviest sums in non quarterback stars.
| Rank | Player | Position | 2024 Team | Avg Annual Value | Total Guarantees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kylie Moore | Edge Rusher | Las Vegas Raiders | $55.9M | $187.5M |
| 2 | George Karlaftis | Edge Rusher | Kansas City Chiefs | $35.0M | $154.0M |
| 3 | Trent Williams | Offensive Tackle | San Francisco 49ers | $34.4M | $230.0M |
| 4 | Nick Bosa | Edge Rusher | San Francisco 49ers | $33.9M | $172.5M |
| 6 | Aaron Donald | Defensive Tackle | Pittsburgh Steelers | $33.5M | $180.0M |
| 7 | Ja'Whaun Bentley | Linebacker | New England Patriots | $28.4M | $117.5M |
| 8 | Stefon Diggs | Wide Receiver | Buffalo Bills | $28.2M | $108.0M |
| 9 | Micah Parsons | Linebacker | Dallas Cowboys | $28.1M | $108.5M |
| 10 | Lloyd Cushenberry | Center | Denver Broncos | $26.7M | $114.0M |
Edge Rushers Setting the Market
Edge rushers consistently command the highest non quarterback salaries, driven by their impact on both run defense and quarterback pressure. Players such as Kylie Moore and George Karlaftis secure average annual values well above $30 million, reflecting how critical speed and power at the edge are to modern defensive schemes.
These deals often include significant guaranteed money and creative structures designed to balance long term team flexibility with immediate competitive upside. Front offices carefully weigh injury risk against disruptive playmaking ability when committing to these large contracts.
Interior Line Anchors and Tackle Economics
Interior linemen like Aaron Donald and Trent Williams continue to reshape the financial landscape for non quarterback positions. Donald leverages his status as an elite interior disruptor to secure massive guarantees, while Williams capitalizes on veteran leverage and franchise tagging to lock in historic totals.
Teams view stabilizing the interior line as essential for protecting quarterbacks and establishing a balanced offensive line, which justifies allocations exceeding $30 million per year for top tackles and centers even in seasons of salary cap constraints.
Dominant Pass Rushers and Linebackers
Elite pass rushers and versatile linebackers occupy multiple top ten spots, showcasing how playmakers who can influence the game in real time remain indispensable. Nick Bosa and Micah Parsons demonstrate that disruptive ability in the box directly translates to wins, supporting annual averages in the high twenties and low thirties.
These players often anchor defensive game plans, serving as the foundation on which schemes are built and justifying premium compensation through consistent double digit sack seasons and coverage responsibilities.
Skill Position Stars Receive Premium Pay
As the salary cap expands, skill position players outside the quarterback role are reaching new highs. Wide receivers such as Stefon Diggs command annual averages comparable to veteran edge players, reflecting the direct influence of playmakers who can change games through explosive plays.
Centers and other interior skill specialists also see elevated compensation as teams recognize the strategic importance of precise line communication and run blocking execution in high level offenses.
Strategic Outlook for Top Non Quarterback Talent
- Monitor cap space allocations to see whether edge rusher salaries continue to outpace interior line averages.
- Track injury reports and durability trends for high value non quarterback players, as these directly affect contract extensions and guarantees.
- Compare team by team investments in pass rushing depth to identify emerging value opportunities.
- Assess how rookie deals for edge and interior prospects influence the future market for veteran non quarterback talent.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which non quarterback position earns the most on average in 2024?
Edge rushers lead all non quarterback positions by annual average value, with top players such as Kylie Moore exceeding $55 million per year.
How do contract guarantees compare between edge rushers and interior linemen?
Edge rushers often carry higher total guarantees but interior linemen like Trent Williams secure a larger portion of their total value through fully guaranteed multi year deals.
Why do pass rushers command salaries similar to veteran offensive linemen?
Pass rushers impact both defense and special teams outcomes, and their ability to generate consistent pressure justifies premium compensation that rivals top interior line markets. Franchise tags allow teams to retain elite interior linemen and pass rushers by offering controlled term deals that delay unrestricted free agency while managing long term cap space.