The moment NFL free agency opens, franchises will be spending many, many millions of dollars.
During the 2023 cycle, star quarterback Lamar Jackson will be the headliner. But there are three more quarterbacks set to land hefty contracts, along with a couple of linemen on both sides of the ball.
This list is subjective, but it is ordered based on projected annual value. We’ve also limited the group of quarterbacks—they will inevitably be paid the largest amounts—to one section.
Additionally, the pool of players is exclusively focused on unrestricted free agents and does not include potential cap casualties.
Top Quarterbacks
Lamar Jackson
Contract Projection: Five years, $255 million with Baltimore Ravens, including $205 million guaranteed
In all likelihood, the initial step will be Baltimore placing the franchise tag on Lamar Jackson. Right now, their negotiations are reportedly $100 million apart in guaranteed money.
Welcome to the guessing game!
Before the season, Jackson said the Ravens were willing to include guarantees in the range of $160-180 million. However, he’d apparently declined a five-year, $250 million offer with $133 million guaranteed. If everything is true, the current difference either means Jackson wants an unparalleled annual salary or Baltimore’s offer is similar to the $130 million.
The benchmark of note is Deshaun Watson’s fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million pact with the Cleveland Browns. Jackson, for good reason, should be eyeing a comparable contract. Of course, the injury red flag will likely be a complication in these discussions.
Ultimately, there’s a real chance the Ravens tag-and-trade Jackson. For now, though, a reunion—presumably after months of negotiations—remains the most likely outcome.
Geno Smith
Contract Projection: Three years, $110 million with Seattle Seahawks, including $87 million guaranteed
Daniel Jones
Contract Projection: Four years, $142 million with New York Giants, including $100 million guaranteed
Jimmy Garoppolo
Contract Projection: Three years, $81 million with Las Vegas Raiders, including $54 million guaranteed