The NFL’s Highest-Paid Edge Rushers: A New Era of Pass-Rushing Dominance
The NFL has witnessed a significant shift in the landscape of pass-rushing talent, with a new generation of edge rushers taking the league by storm. Following the retirement of J.J. Watt in 2023, the Bosa brothers have emerged as the premier sibling pass-rushing duo in the league. Notably, the Bosas claim two of the top 15 spots among the league’s highest-paid edge rushers.
The Top 5 Highest-Paid Edge Rushers
Leading the pack is Nick Bosa of the 49ers, securing the top position after signing a five-year, $170 million extension last offseason. Josh Allen takes the second spot, earning $28.25 million per year. Brian Burns cashes in at the third spot at $28.2 million per year. After being traded from the Panthers, Burns signed a five-year, $141 million contract with the Giants.
T.J. Watt, the 2021 Associated Press Defensive Player of the Year, holds the fourth spot, having inked a four-year extension with the Steelers averaging more than $28 million annually. Myles Garrett of the Browns occupies the fifth position, commanding $25 million per year under a five-year, $125 million contract extension signed in 2020.
The NFL’s highest-paid edge rushers are changing the game
The Full List of Top 25 Highest-Paid Edge Rushers
Here is the full list of the top 25 highest-paid NFL edge rushers by average annual value, compiled using data from Spotrac.
| Rank | Player | Team | Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nick Bosa | San Francisco 49ers | $34 million |
| 2 | Josh Allen | Jacksonville Jaguars | $28.25 million |
| 3 | Brian Burns | New York Giants | $28.2 million |
| 4 | T.J. Watt | Pittsburgh Steelers | $28 million |
| 5 | Myles Garrett | Cleveland Browns | $25 million |
| … | … | … | … |
The NFL’s highest-paid edge rushers are redefining the game
The NFL’s highest-paid edge rushers are redefining the game, and their impact will be felt for years to come. As the league continues to evolve, one thing is certain - these pass-rushing phenoms will be leading the charge.
