As the August 1st trade deadline in MLB approaches our look at teams destined to be active sellers, & a few dozen players who may be headed elsewhere in the coming days.

Trade Chance: Spotrac's Dan Soemann has evaluated each trade possibility, offering a percentage probability that the player will be moved before the deadline.

The New York Mets

Despite a league high $350M payroll ($380M+ in terms of the luxury tax), the Mets find themselves in 4th place in the NL East, 7.5 games out of a Wild Card spot as August nears.

Max Scherzer (SP, 39)

Trade Chance: 20%

Remaining in 2023: $16M ($14M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $43.3M player option for 2024

Justin Verlander (SP, 40)

Trade Chance: 20%

Remaining in 2023: $16M ($14M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $43.3M in 2024, $35M vesting option in 2025

David Robertson (RP, 38)

Trade Chance: 85%

Remaining in 2023: $3.7M ($3.2M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Brooks Raley (RP, 35)

Trade Chance: 50%

Remaining in 2023: $1.6M ($1.45M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $6.5M club option in 2024

Tommy Pham (OF, 35)

Trade Chance: 90%

Remaining in 2023: $2.2M ($1.9M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Mark Canha (OF, 34)

Trade Chance: 25%

Remaining in 2023: $3.9M ($3.3M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $11.5M club option in 2024

The Chicago White Sox

Despite a small run near the All Star break, the White Sox find themselves nearly 20 games under .500 heading toward August - 4th in the AL Central, and 14.5 games out of a Wild Card spot at the time of this publication. The #12 payroll in MLB is likely headed toward a fire sale in the coming months

Lucas Giolito (SP, 28)

Trade Chance: 95%

Remaining in 2023: $3.85M ($3.35M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Lance Lynn (SP, 36)

Trade Chance: 90%

Remaining in 2023: $6.8M ($5.9M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $18M club option in 2024

Joe Kelly (RP, 35)

Trade Chance: 90%

Remaining in 2023: $3.3M ($2.9M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $9.5M club option in 2024

Keynan Middleton (RP, 29)

Trade Chance: 75%

Remaining in 2023: $278k ($242k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Reynaldo Lopez (RP, 29)

Trade Chance: 60%

Remaining in 2023: $1.3M ($1.1M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Tim Anderson (INF, 30)

Trade Chance: 30%

Remaining in 2023: $4.6M ($4M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $14M club option in 2024

The St. Louis Cardinals

Despite a 6-4 record in their last 10, the Cardinals still feel too far behind to consider themselves a playoff squad in 2023 (11 GB in the NL Central, 10 GB from a Wild Card). At the very least, grabbing a prospect or two for their surplus of outfielders and an expiring pitching contract makes sense - if not more.

Jordan Montgomery (SP, 30)

Trade Chance: 80%

Remaining in 2023: $3.7M ($3.2M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Jack Flaherty (SP, 27)

Trade Chance: 80%

Remaining in 2023: $2M ($1.75M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Paul DeJong (INF, 29)

Trade Chance: 25%

Remaining in 2023: $3.3M ($2.9M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $12.5M club option in 2024

Jordan Hicks (RP, 26)

Trade Chance: 85%

Remaining in 2023: $681k ($592k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Chris Stratton (RP, 32)

Trade Chance: 70%

Remaining in 2023: $1M ($903k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Tyler O'Neill (OF, 28)

Trade Chance: 40%

Remaining in 2023: $1.83M ($1.6M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 1 more arbitration year

Dylan Carlson (OF, 24)

Trade Chance: 60%

Remaining in 2023: $275k ($240k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 3 years of arbitration

The Chicago Cubs

The Cubs are in a bit of a pickle. On one hand, there’s young talent ready to develop into legitimate MLB production. On the other hand, there are pricey veterans probably better served elsewhere. Chicago probably needs to take 2 steps backward before they proceed forward - but it could very well be a quick process.

Marcus Stroman (SP, 32)

Trade Chance: 85%

Remaining in 2023: $9.2M ($8M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $21M player option in 2024 (likely opt-out)

Cody Bellinger (OF, 27)

Trade Chance: 85%

Remaining in 2023: $4.4M ($3.8M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $12M mutual option in 2024 (likely opt out)

Michael Fulmer (RP, 30)

Trade Chance: 40%

Remaining in 2023: $1.48M ($1.3M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Kyle Hendricks (SP, 33)

Trade Chance: 55%

Remaining in 2023: $5.2M ($4.5M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $16M club option for 2024

Yan Gomes (C, 35)

Trade Chance: 35%

Remaining in 2023: $2.2M ($1.9M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $6M club option for 2024

The Detroit Tigers

Despite positive steps forward (9 games under .500, 3rd in the AL Central currently), the Tigers likely still view themselves on the outside looking in down the stretch. They also hold 3-4 veteran arms that should be flipped into younger players this week.

Eduardo Rodriguez (SP, 30)

Trade Chance: 85%

Remaining in 2023: $5.2M ($4.5M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 3 yrs, $49M, but he can opt-out after 2023

Michael Lorenzen (SP, 31)

Trade Chance: 20%

Remaining in 2023: $3.15M ($2.75M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Jose Cisnero (RP, 34)

Trade Chance: 30%

Remaining in 2023: $848k ($738k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

The Washington Nationals

The Nats are going to finish the 2023 season where they were expected to (last place in the NL East), but it’s safe to say that they showed a lot more grit and progress (especially on the mound) than anticipated. There are at least a few legitimate building blocks in place right now, and a sale of the team could invigorate a flashy and fun roster push in the coming months/years.

Jeimer Candelario (3B, 29)

Trade Chance: 65%

Remaining in 2023: $1.85M ($1.6M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Kyle Finnegan (RP, 31)

Trade Chance: 70%

Remaining in 2023: $862k ($750k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2 more years of arbitration

Hunter Harvey (RP, 28)

Trade Chance: 30%

Remaining in 2023: $322k ($280k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2 more years of arbitration

Lane Thomas (OF, 27)

Trade Chance: 35%

Remaining in 2023: $816k ($710k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2 more years of arbitration

A Few More

Shohei Ohtani (SP/DH, 28, Angels)

Trade Chance: 45%

Remaining in 2023: $11.1M ($9.6M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Paul Blackburn (SP, 29, Athletics)

Trade Chance: 40%

Remaining in 2023: $704k ($613k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2 more arbitration years

Patrick Wisdom (3B, 31, Cubs)

Trade Chance: 25%

Remaining in 2023: $283k ($246k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 3 arbitration years left

Aaron Civale (SP, 28, Guardians)

Trade Chance: 65%

Remaining in 2023: $965k ($840k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2 more arbitration years

Josh Hader (RP, 29, Padres)

Trade Chance: 80%

Remaining in 2023: $5.2M ($4.5M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Blake Snell (SP, 30, Padres)

Trade Chance: 80%

Remaining in 2023: $6.1M ($5.3M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Juan Soto (OF, 24, Padres)

Trade Chance: 65%

Remaining in 2023: $8.5M ($7.4M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 1 more arbitration year

Rich Hill (SP, 43, Pirates)

Trade Chance: 75%

Remaining in 2023: $2.9M ($2.5M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Jonathan India (INF, 26, Reds)

Trade Chance: 65%

Remaining in 2023: $282k ($245k on 8/1)
Contract Status: 3 arbitration years

C.J. Cron (1B, 33, Rockies)

Trade Chance: 40%

Remaining in 2023: $2.7M ($2.3M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Elias Diaz (C, 32, Rockies)

Trade Chance: 30%

Remaining in 2023: $2M ($1.7M on 8/1)
Contract Status: $6M in 2024

Randal Grichuk (OF, 31, Rockies)

Trade Chance: 20%

Remaining in 2023: $3.8M ($3.3M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 2024 UFA

Brad Hand (RP, 33, Rockies)

Trade Chance: 60%

Remaining in 2023: $556k ($483k on 8.1)
Contract Status: $7M club option in 2024

Scott Barlow (RP, 30, Royals)

Trade Chance: 90%

Remaining in 2023: $1.9M ($1.7M on 8/1)
Contract Status: 1 more arbitration year

Quarterbacks

Current Leader: Tom Brady ($332,962,392, Retired)

Brady retires from the game (officially) as the current top earning player in NFL history. That honor will be short lived, as both Matthew Stafford ($328.3M) & Aaron Rodgers ($306.8M) are knocking on the door. In fact, once we learn of Rodgers’ newly constructed contract in NY, there’s a very good chance that he surpasses Brady’s figure by the end of this season. FULL RANKINGS

Fullbacks

Current Leader: Kyle Juszczyk ($37,928,083, Active)

Juszczyk’s contract guarantees fall off after 2023 though there’s another $12.5M remaining on the deal if he can convince the 49ers to keep him around. He’s already $17M clear of any other fullback in history, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else even coming close at this point. FULL RANKINGS

Running Backs

Current Leader: Adrian Peterson ($103,215,972, Retired)

Peterson still sits $32.5M north of any other running back in NFL history (Ezekiel Elliott, $70.6M). Even if Christian McCaffrey plays out the final three years of his current contract, he’ll still “only” max out at $89.8M. It’s going to take a special situation for a running back to approach the $100M mark ever again. FULL RANKINGS

Wide Receivers

Current Leader: Larry Fitzgerald ($180,757,239, Retired)

Fitzgerald probably had another $20M of playing time in him, but walked away from the game on his terms after the 2020 season. Active WR leader Julio Jones appears maxed out at $148M, while Davante Adams has an outside chance to take over the top spot - if he plays out all 4 of his remaining contract years. FULL RANKINGS

Tight Ends

Current Leader: Jason Witten ($81,879,722, Retired)

For a minute, it seemed like Witten’s number was going to be eviscerated by the star tight ends in the game. But a blatant financial plateau at this position has slowed the rate of pay immensely. With that said, Travis Kelce should claim the top spot by the time the 2024 season is complete, whether he remains on his current contract or signs a much deserved new one. FULL RANKINGS

Offensive Linemen

Current Leader: Trent Williams ($168,790,970, Active)

The 34-year old sits $41M+ clear of any other lineman in NFL history, and has another $97.5M remaining on his contract. A $225M final career number for Williams is very much within reach.David Bakhtiari & Lane Johnson should continue to climb the Top 5 quickly. FULL RANKINGS

Defensive Tackles

Current Leader: Ndamukong Suh ($168,165,157, Free Agent)

Suh has stood atop this leaderboard for a few years now, but his time there is now very much on notice. Aaron Donald ($157.1M) should cruise past him after 2024 - if he decides to keep playing football. FULL RANKINGS

Edge Defenders

Current Leader: Von Miller ($179,385,534, Active)

Miller’s big deal in Buffalo helped him cruise past longtime leader Julius Peppers ($164.9M), and the 34-year-old still has at least $10.7M coming his way due to a 2024 guarantee. Behind him, Khalil Mack has a strong chance to join the $175M club, but there’s a pretty significant dropoff with many of the active players in the league right now. FULL RANKINGS

Linebackers

Current Leader: Bobby Wagner ($101,008,441, Active)

Wagner’s compensation with the Seahawks/Rams this year will take him north of $100M earned in his illustrious career. There’s certainly a real world where 31-year-old C.J. Mosley surpasses him at some point, while Roquan Smith & Tremaine Edmunds now have a path to get there as well. FULL RANKINGS

Cornerbacks

Current Leader: Darrelle Revis ($124,211,129, Retired)

A sizable rookie deal ($32M) & 3 hefty veteran extensions keep Revis atop the earnings board still. Joe Haden was on track to pass him before falling out of the league last season, but for now, teammates Xavien Howard & Jalen Ramsey appear to have the best chance to surpass Revis. FULL RANKINGS

Safeties

Current Leader: Charles Woodson ($97,899,369, Retired)

Devin McCourty walked away from the game this winter just $5.2M shy of Woodson’s leading number. If Tyrann Mathieu can stick on his contract through 2024, he’ll surpass the $100M and hold the belt for a while. There’s a world where safeties struggle to get to this point going forward. FULL RANKINGS

Kickers

Current Leader: Sebastian Janikowski ($53,285,137, Retired)

40-year-old Robbie Gould ($47.7M) currently stands 3rd on this list and has expressed a desire to continue playing, but Justin Tucker still remains the most likely option to surpass the $54M mark. It’s not a guarantee though, as A) it will require 3 more seasons on his current contract, and B) His numbers dipped drastically in 2022. FULL RANKINGS

Punters

Current Leader: Thomas Morstead ($36,343,893, Active)

Believe it or not, this seems like a number that could stand at the top for quite some time, as Johnny Hekker’s current contract only takes slightly over $31M, when he’ll be 35 years old. FULL RANKINGS

Long Snappers

Current Leader: J.J. Jansen ($15,161,150, Active)

Jansen has been playing out at or near minimum contracts for the better part of a decade now, but will complete his 14th season in Carolina after 2023. FULL RANKINGS

The Titans won the bidding war for WR DeAndre Hopkins, who joins Tennessee on a 2 year, $26M contract this summer. Our look at our how the rest of the roster shapes up financially heading toward camp.

Tennessee entered the week with an estimated $8.3M of Top 51 cap space. Early reports claim that Hopkins' new contract contains $12M cash in 2023, though it's not currently clear if bonuses or void years have been integrated to temper the 2023 cap figure (likely). 

Should the Titans require additional cap space to finish off their summer, QB Ryan Tannehill, LB Harold Landry, CB Kevin Byard, RB Derrick Henry, & DE Denico Autry carry sizable base salaries that can open up ample room as needed.

Quarterbacks

35-year-old Ryan Tannehill enters Year 12 on an expiring contract, set to earn $27M cash against a $36.6M cap hit for 2023. Tennessee has drafted a potential future QB1 in each of the past two drafts, but early reports claim that Malik Willis is a roster bubble candidate this summer, and that Will Levis is still a bit of a project in work.

With ample weapons now available around him, can Tannehill play his way into another contract with the Titans this winter?

Running Backs

Like Tannehill, Derrick Henry enters 2023 on an expiring contract, set to earn $10.5M in his 8th NFL season. His $16.6M cap figure is easily the highest among all running backs this year (Nick Chubb, $14.8M), and two void years already have $4.7M more allocated to 2024.

Behind Henry, #81 overall pick Tyjae Spears is projected to vie for action, while Hassan Haskins, a 2022 4th-rounder could also find himself in the mix.

Despite a wealth of production in 2022 (1,900+ yards from scrimmage, 13 TDs), 29-year-old Derrick Henry is likely heading for his final season in Tennessee.

Wide Receivers

The Titans won the bidding war for DeAndre Hopkins this summer, landing him on a 2 year, $26M base contract that can escalate as much as $3M per year thanks to incentives for receptions, yards, & touchdowns. The price point falls inline with or predicted value for Hopkins on the late open market, with Tennessee always being a top landing spot for the 31-year-old. It remains to be seen just how structurally strong the 2024 portion of his contract comes in at.

Hopkins’ signing takes a load off of 2022 #18 overall pick Treylon Burks, who caught 33 passes, including 1 TD in 11 games last season. Burks holds 3 fully guaranteed years plus a 5th-year option on his rookie contract going forward. Nick Westbrook should remain a factor in the passing game despite the addition of Hopkins.

Tight Ends

2022 4th rounder Chig Okonkwo should win the starting role out of the gate this summer with a non-guaranteed 3 year, $2.95M rookie contract still remaining. Elsewhere, 2023 5th rounder Josh Whyle & veteran Trevon Wesco should factor into the season. Tennessee is living light here in 2023.

Offensive Line

The Titans signed Andre Dillard (3 years, $29M) away from Philly this March to take over the left tackle role from departing Taylor Lewan, then drafted Peter Skoronski #11 overall to continue the rebuild on the fly. Skoronski could open the year on the starting line either as a Right Tackle or Guard.

Elsewhere, Daniel Brunskill was brought over from San Francisco, while starting center Aaron Brewer is entering a contract year in Tennessee.

Defensive Line

Jeffery Simmons was part of sizeable increase to the defensive tackle market this spring, locking in a 4 year, $94M extension that included nearly $60M practically guaranteed.

Nose Tackle Teair Tart is set to play out a $4.3M restricted tender, with unrestricted free agency pending next March, while veteran Denico Autry enters a contract year, set to earn $7.25M against a $9.1M cap hit in 2023.

Edge Defenders

A minute after signing a 5 year, $87.5M extension ($52.5M guaranteed), Harold Landry tore an ACL, shelving his entire 2022 campaign, and all of this offseason thus far. He’s questionable to be ready for Week 1 right now based on reports, but is fully guaranteed through the 2024 season contractually speaking.

Arden Key, who was signed away from Jacksonville on a 3 year, $21M contract ($13M guaranteed), should slot into the Sam Linebacker spot this season

Linebackers

Azeez Al-Shaair joins after starting 20 games for the 49ers over the last two seasons. He’s on a 1 year “showcase” contract for all intents and purposes.

2021 3rd rounder Monty Rice enters Year 3 of his rookie contract, with a non-guaranteed 2 year, $2.42M deal ahead of him.

Secondary

The Titans reportedly approached Kevin Byard about taking a pay cut to remain rostered this offseason, but those discussions appear to have subsided. Byard is due $14.1M against a $19.6M cap hit in 2023, with a non-guaranteed $14.1M also remaining in 2024. The near 30-year-old has 9 INTs in the last two seasons.

25-year-old Amani Hooker enters Year 2 of a 4 year, $32.5M contract, after missing nearly half of 2022 due to injury. His $6.185M base salary for 2023 is the last remaining early guarantee on the deal.

2022 #35 overall pick Roger McCreary should provide strong financial value, while 2020 2nd rounder Kristian Fulton is entering a contract year this season.

Special Teams

2022 UDFA Caleb Shudak & 2023 UDFA Trey Wolff should compete for the starting kicking role out of camp, while 2022 UDFA Ryan Stonehouse will retain the punting duties for the upcoming campaign. Morgan Cox returns for a 3rd season in Tennessee, his 14th overall.

As NFL training camps approach, our deep dive into actual contract extension breakdown projections for Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Saquon Barkley, Chris Jones, Justin Jefferson & 5 notable Dallas Cowboys players.

Dak Prescott (QB, Cowboys)

Prescott & the Cowboys waited to the very last minute to lock in his first multi-year extension, a 4 year, $160M contract to bypass a $38M 2nd franchise tag in 2021. Just over two years later, Dallas is eyeing a version 2.0 of this contract, most notably to clean up a near $60M cap hit looming in 2024. With QB salaries soaring past Dak's current $40M pricepoint, what lies next for Prescott?

Projected Contract

There's a world where Dak only accepts a 2 or 3 year extension for his next deal in order to keep things as neat and tidy as possibly (term was a major sticking point for him the last go around). We'll push things out 4 years for this projection, offering up a 6 year, $265M contract that includes 4 years, $200M of new financials. The deal carries $128M fully guaranteed at signing (through 2025), with another $47M locking in March of 2024. Because of a March restructure that paid out $30M to Prescott, we've pushed the bulk of the cashflow on this new deal into 2024, in the form of a $75M option bonus. Any cap relief that the Cowboys are looking to gain in 2024 will quickly be mitigated by huge figures in 2025-2026 here, but we're relying on the assumption that Dallas will keep on kicking that can down the line until the sun sets. Early (large) March roster bonuses will afford them the opportunity for massive cap conversions on a yearly basis. The $175M practically guaranteed is structured entirely into the next 4 seasons, putting Dak on track to re-up for a 3rd time after 2026, at age 33.

CeeDee Lamb (WR, Cowboys)

Lamb became extension eligible for the first time after the 2022 season, his most productive year to date. His primary agent (Tory Dandy) has a strong track record of short and very sweet extensions for star wide receivers (Mike Williams, Chris Godwin, DK Metcalf, etc...), so we're following suit here for Lamb's next deal.

Projected Contract

Our projected extension for Lamb is more or less a cap-adjusted version of DK Metcalf's recent deal in Seattle, with a similar AAV, 2-year, & 3-year cash flow structure. We've stayed away from the double bonus system that Metcalf received, as the Cowboys generally prefer to deal with roster bonuses that they can choose to convert (or not) annually. This is a 3 year, $63.5M base contract on its face, with a chance to get $100M+ over the next 5 seasons in total value.

Tony Pollard (RB, Cowboys)

Pollard was on a fast track to a multi-year extension in Dallas when a broken fibula derailed the process. The Cowboys responded with a tag offered, and Pollard signed it almost immediately. Dallas has yet to replace Zeke Elliott on the roster, potentially further showing their trust and need for Pollard in this offseason.

Projected Contract

With the franchise tag already signed (and on the books), we're offering 2 new years, and $25M new money on top of it, including $23M fully guaranteed through 2024. This figure represents a (slight) increase over the $22.2M Pollard would secure on back to back franchise tags, but such is the life of a running back in the NFL. Our projection includes a $10M signing bonus & $11.5M in 2023 - again a slight increase over his current tag figure. All of 2024 is fully guaranteed at signing, with a $7.5M roster bonus to be paid out early in March. That same $7.5M bonus is available in 2025, though without any early vesting trigger attached to it. We've included two void years to allow the signing bonus to spread out the maximum 5 years.

Trevon Diggs (CB, Cowboys)

Diggs has developed into one of the best young corners in the game, and seems a lock to remain a fixture in Dallas for the next few years. Jaire Alexander ($21M per year) and Denzel Ward ($71.25M guaranteed) carry the top numbers at this position. It stands to reason that Diggs can challenge these numbers with his upcoming extension.

Projected Contract

We're projecting a 4 year, $86M extension for Trevon Diggs, making him the highest average paid CB in NFL history. Our predicted guarantee structure however ($43M at signing, $60.5M practically) fall slightly short of the top of the market, but still represent Top 3 figures in both cases. Dallas will have an early opt-out available after 2025, but will need to make a quick decision as the 2026 salary will fully guarantee in March of that offseason.

Terence Steele (OT, Cowboys)

Steele has started 13 games each of the last 3 seasons, making him an integral piece to the Cowboys puzzle. Dallas has plenty of mouths to feed, but losing a core offensive lineman shouldn't be a consideration with a roster attempting to contend annually.

Projected Contract

With Right Tackle contracts now over $20M per year at the top of the market, $15M becomes a standard extension point. We're projecting Steele to land a little higher on a total value basis, but right at that $15M per year in terms of guarantee structure ($45M practically guaranteed through 2025). This is a $65M contract over 5 years if it's played out in full.

Joe Burrow (QB, Bengals)

Burrow's extension is one of the more anticipated contracts in all of sports, as the Bengals have little wiggle room with their superstar QB. The 27 year old is averaging 284 passing yards per game a 104+ rating, completing nearly 70% of his passes over the past two seasons in Cincy. There will be a push to make this contract a "mini-Mahomes" structure, but with the cap growing rapidly, and QB pay increasing at an even faster rate, keeping this deal as neat and tidy as possible should be a priority for Burrow's camp.

Projected Contract

Our projected breakdown for Burrow's next deal involves tacking on 4 new years, $222M new money to his remaining 2 years, $35M, or a 6 year, $257M contract. The extension includes a $60M signing bonus, $75M of 2-year cash, and $120M of 3-year cash - the fully guaranteed at signing portion of this contract. Another $45M (his 2026 compensation) will become fully guaranteed next March, while a final $25M (a 2027 roster bonus) will become guaranteed for cap in March of 2025, bringing the practical guarantee on this contract to $190M. March roster bonuses in each of the last 5 seasons of this contract offer Burrow an early pay day, and the Bengals an opportunity to free up cap space with a simple conversion where necessary.

Justin Herbert (QB, Chargers)

The Chargers and QB Justin Herbert have been in negotiation talks for the better part of 5 months now, with very little progress being noted publicly. But as training camps approach, contracts for both he and Joe Burrow should become front and center talking points across the league. Like Burrow, Herbert shouldn't be wooed by an 8-10 year "career" contract offer for his first major pay day. With the league's financial landscape as healthy as ever, leveraging a get-in/get-out tactic should allow the 25-year-old to cash in on (at least) 3 major veteran contracts over the course of his NFL career.

Projected Contract

The Chargers haven't veered off the beaten path in terms of structure with their blockbuster contracts, so we won't project they'll do anything of the sort here either. Herbert gets a double bonus package that includes a $40M signing bonus in 2023, and a $25M option bonus for 2024. The early cash payouts equate to $72M through two years ($40M more than his current cashflow), and $112M through three years - representing the guaranteed at sign portion of this extension. From there another $63M of his contract becomes guaranteed for practical purposes, including his entire 2026 salary, and $20M of 2027 compensation, all of which carry early vesting triggers to ensure a payout.

Chris Jones (DT, Chiefs)

One of the best interior defensive linemen in all of football should never have been allowed to enter 2023 with an expiring contract, and it appears the Chiefs won't make that mistake, as the two sides have been deep in negotiation to extend the 29 year old this month. Aaron Donald's $31.6M per year, $95M guaranteed stand atop the DL list, but Jones should be next in line to approach those thresholds with his next contract.

Projected Contract

Our projected breakdown for Chris Jones' extension includes 3 new years, $93M new money on top of his 1 year, $20M remaining. We've added a void year to allow a $25M signing bonus to prorate over a full 5 seasons, which factors into $55M of 2-year cash, $82.5M of 3-year cash, both of which come in comfortably ahead of any DT not named Donald. The deal includes $54.5M fully guaranteed at signing, with another $27M set to lock in for cap/skill next March.

Saquon Barkley (RB, Giants)

The deadline for Barkley to sign a multi-year extension this summer is just days away (July 15th), so any compromising in the process will need to happen quickly. Barkley seems the most likely franchise tagged player to garner an extension, even if paying running backs has become a thing of the past in most cases. Barkley's $10.091M franchise tag would represent the 8th most cash paid out to a running back in 2023. A 2nd franchise tag would bring his 2-year total over $22.2M, so beating this number in upfront guarantee appears to be the largest hurdle for any extension.

Projected Contract

Our projected contract extension for Barkley includes $24M fully guaranteed at signing, with a chance to earn $30M over the next two seasons thanks to per game active bonuses and achievable incentives. The deal includes a $12M signing bonus, increasing Barkley's 2023 base compensation to $13.5M, with a chance to get to $16.25M. The Giants will see around $5M of cap savings for the upcoming season on this contract, while an early March roster bonus in 2024 can be converted to free up ample space next season as well without damaging the dead cap scenarios too much going forward.

Justin Jefferson (WR, Vikings)

It's hard to find a statistical category that Justin Jefferson hasn't eclipsed out of the gate through 3 NFL seasons, which doesn't bode well for any hopes of a "team-friendly" extension in Minnesota. Tyreek Hill's (fluffy) $30M per year and Cooper Kupp's $75M guaranteed are the current top numbers for WRs, though when it comes to rookie extensions, those figures drop to $25M (A.J. Brown) & $58.2M (DK Metcalf). Has Jefferson done enough to sit atop ALL WR numbers?

Projected Contract

We're bucking our usually conventional thinking here, putting Jefferson on the largest contract by every metric in NFL WR history. The 4 year, $128M extension pays out $54M through 2 years, $73M through 3 years with $53M fully guaranteed at signing (Tyreek Hill, $52.5M). Another $43M of salary becomes fully guaranteed in March of 2024, bringing the practical guarantees to a whopping $96M - $21M more than any WR has ever received. The double bonus structure of this contract keep the cap figures extremely tenable for the next two seasons, with a convertable base salaries in 2025-2026 as needed.

With the All Star Break upon us, our look at the current & future financial statuses for MLB's midseason stat leaders.

HITS, ON BASE PERCENTAGE, BATTING AVERAGE
Luis Arraez (2B, MIA)

2023 Salary: $6,100,000
Arraez was flirting with .400 for much of the first half, but dipped down to .383 at the midpoint (still 50 points more than any player in the game -  Acuna Jr., .331). His 126 hits at the midway point matches his overall total from back in 2021, and just 47 below last year’s outstanding campaign. He’s a serious 200 hit candidate this year. The 26 year old is in Year 2 of 4 arbitration seasons, setting up a 2026 free agency stint.

SLUGGING ON BASE + SLUGGING, TRIPLES, HOME RUNS, TOTAL BASES, ISO
Shohei Ohtani (DH, LAA)

2023 Salary:  $30,000,000
First off, anyone leading MLB in Homers & Triples at any point in time is already doing something special. Factor in all the rest here PLUS the unmentioned pitching numbers, and it’s plain as day why Ohtani is headed toward the most unique free agent scenario in league history this winter. His leading numbers: (SLG: .663, OPS: 1.050, OPS+: 182, 3B: 6, HR: 32, TB: 226, ISO: .361)

BATTING WAR, RUNS CREATED, POWER/SPEED
Ronald Acuna Jr. (OF, ATL)

2023 Salary: $17,000,000

A healthy Acuna Jr. is about as dangerous a player the game can have. He’s 2nd to Shohei Ohtani in almost every power category, while also currently sitting 2nd in batting average and stolen bases. Acuna Jr. also leads all batters with a whopping 5.0 WAR, nearlying surpassing his career high (5.1, 2019) at the midway point. The do-it-all star is owed $85M from 2024-2028. He’s worth double that.

RUNS BATTED IN
Adolis Garcia (OF, TEX)

2023 Salary: $747,760
Garcia has been filling up the stat board within a potent Rangers’ offense, hitting the midway point with 20 doubles, 23 homers, and a league leading 75 RBIs. The late bloomer won’t start arbitration until next season, despite hitting age 31 at that point in time.

STOLEN BASES
Esteury Ruiz (OF, OAK)

2023 Salary: $720,000
The 24-year-old hits the midway point with 43 steals, despite 40 less plate appearances than 2nd place Ronald Acuna Jr. (41). He’s got 7 years of team control ahead of him still.

INNINGS PITCHED
Logan Webb (SP, SF)

2023 Salary: $4,600,000
The 26-year-old is averaging 6 ? innings per start this season. Factor in a near 3 ERA and over 9 strikeouts per 9 innings, and it’s easy to justify San Francisco’s recent $90M extension for their ace. He’s locked in through the 2028 season.

ERA+, EV, HARD HIT %
Justin Steele (SP, CHC)

2023 Salary: $740,000
Steele’s 172 ERA+ (ERA when adjusted specifically for ballparks played) just barely noses out Clayton Kershaw’s 171 figure at the midway point. One of his biggest reasons for efficiency success? Steele also leads the league in lowest average Exit Velocity (85.1) and lowest percent (30.8%) of balls hit with an exit velocity of 95 MPH+. The 27-year-old is on a near minimum salary this year, with 4 seasons of arbitration still ahead of him.

FIP
Kevin Gausman (SP, TOR)

2023 Salary: $21,000,000
Quickly becoming one of the more popular pitching stats, FIP tracks the overall effectiveness of a pitcher when excluding factors that are out of his control (bad bounces on a grounder to 2nd, etc…). Gausman (2.45) is the only pitcher with a sub 2.5 FIP at the midway point, a stat he led the league in (2.38) in 2022.

WHIP
Tyler Wells (SP, BAL)

2023 Salary: $732,400
After an average 2022 rookie campaign, Wells has rounded into form for his sophomore season, leading all of baseball with a 0.927 WHIP (Walks + Hits / Innings Pitched) at the midway point.

BATTING AVERAGE AGAINST
Shohei Ohtani (SP, LAA)

2023 Salary:  $30,000,000
Opposing batters are hitting just .189 against Ohtani this season, with an average exit velocity of just 86.5MPH (5th). All the more reason to inflate that blockbuster contract coming this winter.

SLUGGING & OPS AGAINST
Marcus Stroman (SP, CHC)

2023 Salary: $25,000,000
Something about expiring contracts gets Marcus Stroman a little extra dialed in on the mound. The 32 year old signed a 3 year, $71M free agent contract in Chicago December 2021, but can opt out of the remaining $21M after this coming season. He’s posting a career year across the board, including a league best .284 slugging against, .566 OPS against at the midway point.

STRIKEOUTS
Spencer Strider (SP, ATL)

2023 Salary: $1,000,000

The Braves saw enough of Strider in 20 starts last season to lock him up to a $75M extension in October. His overall efficiency has dipped a bit, but he’s still striking out batters at an impressive rate, with 166 total Ks in 104 innings pitched (14.3 per 9).

SAVES
Alexis Diaz (CIN), Camilo Doval (SF), Jordan Romano (TOR)

These three relievers hit the midway point with 26 saves for their respective teams. Diaz & Doval are operating on near minimum pre-arbitration salaries, while Romano is playing out his first year of arbitration in Toronto on a $4.5M figure. Diaz carries the best total resume into the break, with nearly 14 strikeouts per 9, a 236 ERA+ and only 1 home run given up in 40 innings of work.

PITCHING WAR
Gerrit Cole (SP, NYY)

2023 Salary: $36,000,000
It’s rare to be able to sit back and say that one of the highest paid players in a sport is 100% worth every penny, but that’s exactly where Gerrit Cole stands as the Yankees’ SP1. The 32-year-old hits the midway point with a league leading 3.8 WAR, accounting for a Runs Allowed per 9 rate of exactly 3 runs. He’s owed $180M through 2028.

Spotrac’s Midseason MLB Contract Awards highlight a few deals signed in the past year that have immediately paid off on the field, and a few players trending toward a new pay day because of their strong first half.

Free Agent Contracts

AL Pitcher: Nathan Eovaldi (SP, Rangers)

Eovaldi joined Texas on a 2 year, $34M contract after 5 seasons in Boston. He’s already surpassed last year’s strikeout total while carrying an ERA one full point lower (2.83) than his 2022 campaign. A healthy 2nd half should bag him an additional $3M thanks to innings incentives.

AL Hitter: Aaron Judge (OF, Yankees)

Sure he’s only appeared in 49 games (and a severe toe injury leaves him without a timetable to return) but it’s worth noting that Judge’s production to start 2023 was on a similar path to his historic 2022 run. It’s safe to assume we’d be monitoring a second consecutive Ohtani/Judge battle right now if not for Judge’s injury. Contractually, he’s owed another $338.5M through 2031.

AL Value: Kevin Kiermaier (OF, Blue Jays)

Kiermaier joined Toronto on a 1 year, $9M contract after 9 seasons in Tampa, brought on for his outstanding center field defense, pushing oft-injured George Springer into a more conservative role. He’s responded by filling up the stat board, and should command a multi-year guarantee next time around.

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw (SP, Dodgers)

Despite speculation of possible retirement or a shift to Texas, Kershaw returned to LA on a 1 year, $20M contract this winter. He’s been impressive & at times dominating in his 16th season, though shoulder inflammation could keep him away from a few starts to begin the second half.

NL Hitter: Dansby Swanson (SS, Cubs)

The Braves let Swanson walk away to Chicago to the tune of $177M through the 2029 season. He’s the highest paid member of the Cubs by nearly $100M, and so far, looks every bit worth the price of admission, carrying a near 3 WAR into the break.

NL Value: Jeimer Candelario (3B, Nationals)

Added on a 1 year, $5M contract as a bit of a rental vet for a very young, rebuilding Nats squad, Candelario has played himself into prime trade positioning - good news for both sides as the August 1st deadline approaches. 

Contract Extensions

AL Pitcher: Pablo Lopez (SP, MIN)

Lopez was acquired from Miami in exchange for batting champ Luis Arraez, this past January, then extended out to a 4 year, $73.5M contract early on this season. The kicker? He’s the #4 pitcher in a Twins rotation that has suddenly become as deep as ever over the past few months. Lopez’ $18.3M per year extension won’t officially kick in until 2024.

AL Hitter: Andres Gimenez (SS, Guardians)

Cleveland probably wants to see Gimenez’ power numbers return for the second half, but for the most part, the 24-year-old has held up his end of a 7 year $106.5M extension out of the gate. With four years of team control bought out, the Guardians are only shelling out $35M of this contract across its first 4 seasons, giving Gimenez a little leeway as he continues to develop.

NL Pitcher: Logan Webb (SP, Giants)

The Giants had seen enough of Webb by the time Spring of 2023 rolled around to know they had a bonafide ace on their hands for the foreseeable future. They rewarded him with a 5 year, $90M extension, buying out his final two years of arbitration starting in 2024. While the overall numbers are a bit down right now, he’s eating up valuable innings for San Franciso as they continue to vie for an NL West title.

NL Hitter: Corbin Carroll (OF, Diamondbacks)

One of the more highly touted prospects in recent memory has hit the ground sprinting, living up to seemingly every expectation attached to him out of the gate. He’ll hit the break with (at least) 20 doubles, 18 homers, and 24 stolen bases, carrying a 3.5 WAR with him. Arizona knew this was coming, and locked in the 22 year-old to an 8 year, $111M extension this March that can max out at $154M over 9 years if all goes well.

Pending Free Agents

AL Pitcher: Lucas Giolito (SP, White Sox)

Disclaimer: Of course Shohei Ohtani should be here, but in lieu of his name being mentioned every other sentence, we’re opting for a little variety instead. The White Sox have been waiting 6 years for Giolito to become a consistent, top of the rotation arm. Now just a few months away from his free agent eligibility, it seems he’s figured it out. He’s both a trade and extension candidate heading toward August, with a deal around $20M per year likely in his future.

AL Hitter: Matt Chapman (3B, Blue Jays)

Chapman has really settled into his role in Toronto, raising his efficiency numbers across the board while anchoring a loaded Blue Jays lineup from the 5 hole. There are a lot of mouths to feed in Toronto over the next few seasons, but keeping this marriage together makes a lot of sense. Chapman projects toward a 4 year, $60M extension in our system.

NL Pitcher: Marcus Stroman (SP, Cubs)

Extension discussions between Stroman and the Cubs appear to have broken off, putting the 32 year old in line to opt out of his $21M salary for 2024, and hit the open market this winter. Will he find a suitor to match or exceed his current $25M AAV? Our system places him right at the $21M number he’s walking away from currently.

NL Hitter: Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (OF, Diamondbacks)

After a down year from a power and production standpoint, Toronto shipped Gurriel’s expiring contract to Arizona, where he’s reestablished himself nicely. The D-Backs have a surplus of outfield talent ready to progress, so it seems extremely likely that the 29-year-old hits the open market this winter, projecting toward a 5 year, $90M contract in our system.

Pending Extensions

AL Pitcher Framber Valdez (SP, Astros)

It’s been an injury-plagued season for Houston, but Valdez has been a pillar of consistency through the first half. He’s on pace for career marks across the board, which should inflate his next two years of arbitration salary nicely. Will the Astros buy those out with a multi-year extension soon? Our numbers peg him at a 6 year, $142M contract right now.

AL Hitter: Adolis Garcia (OF, Rangers)

Garcia’s success feels new on a national level, but he has 80 2Bs, 80 HRs, & 262 RBIs in the past 2 ½ seasons in Texas. A late bloomer, the 30-year-old doesn’t start his arbitration track until next season, having made himself one of the best values in all of baseball. The Rangers have a lot of dough allocated to their 40-man roster, but Garcia is as worthy of a multi-year guarantee as anyone.

NL Pitcher Bryce Elder (SP, Braves)

Stop me when you’ve heard this before. Young Braves player gets to the show, immediately makes an impact, garners himself a solid (but team-friendly) extension. Elder seems primed to be the next man up in Atlanta, now sitting in the #2 spot of the rotation behind last year’s phenom Spencer Strider. The Braves bought out 5 years of Strider’s team control on what could be $92M over 7 seasons. A similar structure could fit the bill for Elder this winter.

NL Hitter: Will Smith (C, Dodgers)

Smith is on pace to go back to back seasons with 20 doubles, 20 homers, and 80 RBIs as the Dodgers’ backstop. With two more arbitration eligible seasons remaining, there’s not a huge rush to lock him in long term, but with Ohtani’s arrival potentially pending, keeping Smith in the long term future makes sense.

It’s been a rough decade for running backs as NFL teams have engaged in a full-scale lockout for most players post rookie contracts. But as is the case with everything - a few exceptions continue to remain. We’ll take a look at which active running backs have a chance to buck the devaluation trend, and lock in a multi-year contract extension in the coming months.

Related:
Top Average Paid Running Backs
Largest Running Back Guarantees
2024 Running Back Free Agents

Jonathan Taylor (Colts, 24)

Contract Status: 1 year, $4.3M, 2024 UFA
Calculated Valuation: 4 years, $52M ($13M per year)

Taylor posted 3,600+ yards from scrimmage over his first 2 NFL seasons, including 76 catches out of the backfield in Indy. But an ankle injury (and possible regression?) hampered his 2022 campaign, slowing the conversation about the next McCaffrey type extension considerably. With his rookie contract set to expire after the upcoming season, is Taylor the next prime candidate for a tag or two?

Prediction: Taylor is offered a projected $13M franchise tag next February, but the two sides agree on a multi-year extension during the offseason, due in large part to the QB1’s rookie contract.

Saquon Barkley (Giants, 26)

Contract Status: 1 year, $10.091M tag offered
Calculated Valuation: 4 years, $49M ($12.25M per year)

Barkley has been public both about his dissatisfaction with the Giants recent contract offers, and with the possibility of playing out a franchise tag in 2023. Something’s going to need to give as the July 15th extension deadline approaches - because sitting out just hasn’t proven to be the stance it used to be. He’s worth a two year guarantee, even with the health risks.

Prediction: The Giants and Barkley agree to a 4 year, $60M contract extension that includes $25M fully guaranteed, $3M more than he would cash on back to back franchise tags. 

Josh Jacobs (Raiders, 25)

Contract Status: 1 year, $10.091M tag offered
Calculated Valuation: 4 years, $51M ($12.75M per year)

Financially speaking, Jacobs and Barkley are walking down the same path right now, but the two situations feel very different on the surface. A) Jacobs has been radio silent about his future B) The Raiders aren’t necessarily in “contention” like the Giants may be come Christmas. C) Jacobs is an entire year younger than Barkley, which could give him leeway to sit this season out while demanding a contract or trade. Statistically, Jacobs found his pass-catching legs in 2021, then put the whole package together in his contract season last year (2,000 yards from scrimmage, 53 catches, 12 TDs). He’s worthy of a two year guarantee right now.

Hot Take Prediction: Jacobs is traded to the Cincinnati Bengals, for Joe Mixon and a pick, who in turn extend him to a 4 year, $55M contract, with $25M fully guaranteed through 2024. 

Measured Prediction: He signs the tag, the Raiders stumble out of the gate, and he demands a deadline trade.

Tony Pollard (Cowboys, 26)

Contract Status: 1 year, $10.091M tag signed
Calculated Valuation: 4 year, $40M ($10M per year)

Pollard was on a fast track to a multi-year extension in Dallas when a broken fibula derailed the process. The Cowboys responded with a tag offered, and Pollard signed it almost immediately. Dallas has yet to replace Zeke Elliott on the roster, potentially further showing their trust and need for Pollard in this offseason.

Prediction: The two sides agree to a compromising midpoint before July 15th, and Pollard signs a 3 year, $27M contract, with $15M fully guaranteed.

JK Dobbins (Ravens, 25)

Contract Status: 1 year, $1.4M, 2024 UFA
Calculated Valuation: 2 years, $8M ($4M per year)

After a promising rookie campaign, Dobbins missed all of 2021, and half of 2022. His metrics through 8 games last season however showed promise, but the lack of availability has to be a major suppressant to any type of contract negotiation currently in the works. He’s a bridge contract candidate at best.

Prediction: 2023 free agency showed us one thing: The days of bidding wars for running backs are over. Baltimore lets this ride to free agency and tries to keep him around at about the calculated value, possibly even less.

A.J. Dillon (Packers, 25)

Contract Status: 1 year, $1.3M, 2024 UFA
Calculated Valuation: 2 years, $8M ($4M per year)

The Packers probably expected Dillon to have the keys to the running back room by now, but a $5M pay cut for Aaron Jones this March keeps him atop the depth chart for another season. He’s been active for every game over the past two seasons, but the yards per attempt is hovering around the 4 mark during that span, and the pass catching production took a serious step backward in 2022. It’s very possible that the Packers’ offense will be geared more towards the run game with Jordan Love at the helm, so it could be a perfect timing scenario for Dillon’s expiring.

Prediction: Green Bay hasn’t yet drafted a replacement for Dillon, so there’s reason to believe they are willing to give this a serious thought in the coming months. Playing out 2023 is probably best for both sides here.

D’Andre Swift (Eagles, 24)

Contract Status: 1 year, $1.7M, 2024 UFA
Calculated Valuation: 4 years, $26M ($6.5M per year)

Swift was acquired from Detroit at the end of April for a 2025 4th round pick and a 7th round pick swap. He’s never been able to manage a full workload, but won’t be asked to do so in Philadelphia - who have routinely used a 3-4 back rotation for years now. There’s a world where Swift slots into Miles Sanders’ role however, a situation that just scored him a 4 year, $25.4M contract on the open market.

Prediction: The Eagles have no reason to jump the gun here. Swift plays out his rookie contract and is a fringe franchise tag candidate next February, with free agency the most likely outcome here.

POTENTIAL 2024 ADDITIONS

Rhamondre Stevenson (Patriots, 25)

Stevenson made himself known early on last season and should have a full boat of duties in 2023 before he becomes extension eligible. The Patriots might offer him an early extension - but it’s highly unlikely that it will represent a top of the market bottom line - even if he deserves it.

Nick Chubb (Browns, 27)

He’s almost 28, and the contract holds a non-guaranteed $12M in 2024, but he’s also still highly productive and and integral piece to this Browns’ puzzle. Most running backs aren’t even sniffing a second contract in this league - but Chubb may be trending toward a third.

Javonte Williams (Broncos, 23)

It’s not inconceivable that Williams fully recovers from a torn ACL, LCL, & PCL and regains full control of the Broncos’ running game. Age is in his favor, even if nothing else appears to be right now.

Christian McCaffrey (49ers, 27)

McCaffrey’s in a truly great situation right now from every angle: Contract, Team Fit, Rostered QB Money. His holds $12M this year, $12M next year, and $12.2M for 2025, but the early guarantees have dissipated. He just turned 27 years old, so there’s at least some reason to start thinking about the exit game here, but that simply might be a rip it up and start it over type scenario after the upcoming season.

Related:
Top Average Paid Running Backs
Largest Running Back Guarantees
2024 Running Back Free Agents

With the 2023 NBA Draft just a few hours away, we’ll dive into the top earning NBA player from each first round draft slot in league history (for a minute).

RELATED: Top Earning NBA Players by Draft Pick

#1 Overall

LeBron James, $431,859,107, 2003

Drafted in 2003 LeBron has been one of the (very) rare examples of living up to the #1 hype and then some. He'll bag another $46.9M this upcoming season, with a $50.6M player option awaiting next summer, putting him in the running to surpass $500M on the court.

#2 Overall

Kevin Durant, $350,297,591, 2007

The second pick behind Greg Oden in 2007, Durant has now signed 7 contracts in the NBA. His current deal in Phoenix holds another $150M to be earning, putting him just under $500M in total.

#3 Overall

James Harden, $301,660,574, 2009

Harden went to OKC behind Blake Griffin & Hasheem Thabeet in 2009 and is currently an unrestricted free agent at age 33. There's a world where he locks in another $210M with another max contract this summer.

#4 Overall

Chris Paul, $359,109,419, 2005

The three players drafted ahead of Chris Paul in 2005 (Andrew Bogut, Marvin Williams, Deron Williams) combined to earn $398M in their careers. Paul is now guaranteed $25M in 2023-24, though his contract status is very much up in the air with the recent trade to Washington.

#5 Overall

Kevin Love, $265,818,402, 2008

Love just finished his 4th contract in the league, spanning 15 seasons with 3 organizations. He was selected 5th in 2008 behind Derrick Rose, Michael Beasley, OJ Mayo, & Russell Westbrook.

#6 Overall

Damian Lillard, $233,708,358, 2012

Dame has earned over $233M in just 11 NBA seasons (drafted in 2012), averaging over $21M per year thus far. He's guaranteed another $216.2M through 2026-27 - no matter where he's playing from here out.

#7 Overall

Stephen Curry, $302,806,362, 2009

Steph was selected 4 picks behind James Harden in 2009, but has now (barely) surpassed him in career earnings (despite an extremely team friendly rookie extension back in 2013 (4 years, $44M). Curry's current deal will carry him over the $470M earned mark after 2025-26.

#8 Overall

Rudy Gay, $174,781,320, 2006

It's been a tough go from the #8 spot historically speaking, but so was the entire 2006 draft to be perfectly fair. Gay's $174M is the 4th most earned out of that draft class, behind only Kyle Lowry (#24, $245M), LaMarcus Aldridge (#2 overall, $213M), & Paul Millsap (#47 overall, $192M).

#9 Overall

Gordon Hayward, $236,884,749, 2010

Hayward is entering a contract year in Charlotte, set to finish out his 4th NBA deal in 2023-24. He'll increase his career earnings north of $268M, and should soar past $300M with a new deal next summer.

#10 Overall

Paul George, $259,692,078, 2010

The 8x All Star, 6x All-NBA #10 pick in the 2010 draft was selected immediately after Gordon Hayward, and holds future salaries of $45.6M & a $48.7M player option on his current contract.

#11 Overall

Klay Thompson, $222,944,784, 2011

Thompson enters a contract year in 2023-24, set to earn a fully guaranteed $43.2M in Golden Sate, raising his career earnings north of $266M.

#12 Overall

Steven Adams, $145,144,832, 2013

Adams was the 4th center drafted in 2013 (Cody Zeller, Alex Len, Nerlens Noel), but he's nearly out-earned them all combinen to date. He holds another $25.2M fully guaranteed through the 2024-25 season.

#13 Overall

Devin Booker, $130,516,653, 2015

Don't be deceived by the $130M next to Booker's name right now. There's another $260M fully guaranteed coming down the pipeline, putting him inline to hold this top spot at #13 overall for years to come.

#14 Overall

Marcus Morris Sr., $89,249,640, 2011

Enjoy seeing Marcus Morris here for a minute, because the $104M fully guaranteed (and plenty more to come) on Bam Adebayo's deal will takeover the top spot this time next year.

#15 Overall

Kawhi Leonard, $230,926,127, 2011

It's been 4 seasons since Leonard helped the Raptors snag an unlikely title, and he's earned over $146M since then. His current deal in LA holds a $45.6M salary for the upcoming season, and a $48.7M player option thereafter, putting him on pace for $325M earned on the court.

#16 Overall

Nikola Vucevic, $154,338,639, 2011

Vucevic just completed his 3rd NBA contract, pulling his earnings north of $150M on the court. The 32 year old will be seeking another multi-year guarantee on the open market this summer.

#17 Overall

Jrue Holiday, $219,128,885, 2009

As it currently stands, Jrue Holiday is set to earn $291M through the 2024-25 season. He just posted near career numbers at 32 years old, making it perfectly plausible to believe he can be a $300M player when it's all said and done.

#18 Overall

Eric Bledsoe, $128,052,507, 2010

A solid 12 year career was dampened by a buyout/stretch of his final contract by Portland, but he's a $130M+ player no matter what.

#19 Overall

Tobias Harris, $209,233,355, 2011

There's been plenty said about the amount of money Tobias Harris has been earning over the past 4 seasons, but he'll be a $250M player at 31 years old. There's plenty of room for more in this career.

#20 Overall

Evan Fournier, $126,527,226, 2012

Fournier is (likely) finishing out his 3rd contract in 2023-24, with $18.8M still to be earned as a role player for the Knicks. The 30-year-old can probably latch on as a depth piece for a few more seasons, carrying him north of $150M when it's all said and done.

#21 Overall

Rajon Rondo, $115,777,250, 2006

Rondo's 16 year career included 9 contracts, culminating with a 5 year, $55M rookie scale extension from the Celtics back in 2009.

#22 Overall

Courtney Lee, $74,196,509, 2008

The second-lowest earning draft pick in the first round, Lee sits atop the #22 list despite a max salary of just $11.9M in his 12 year career. Jarrett Allen is coming for this spot quickly.

#23 Overall

Tayshaun Prince, $80,448,048, 2002

Prince only eclipsed the $10M+ mark in annual cash earned twice in his 14 seasons, but he might hold this spot for a few more seasons regardless.

#24 Overall

Kyle Lowry, $245,366,160, 2006

Easily the top earning player picked outside of the Top 10, Lowry is set to finish out his 6th NBA contract in 2023-24. He'll tack on another $29.6M (fully guaranteed), bringing his career total north of $275M.

#25 Overall

Nicolas Batum, $187,412,357, 2008

Batum was bought out of a contract 3 years ago, and has since locked in almost $32M, a remarkable turnaround. He'll wind up a $200M+ earning player when it's said and done.

#26 Overall

George Hill, $112,353,436, 2008

Hill completed his 5th NBA contract this season, but has only eclipsed the $10M mark twice in 15 seasons.

#27 Overall

Rudy Gobert, $176,207,582, 2013

Gobert may never do historic things on the court, but amassing $300M out of the #27 draft slot puts him in extremely rare air. He's guaranteed $131.4M through 2025-26, when he'll be 33 years old.

#28 Overall

Tony Parker, $165,843,436, 2001

The tail end of Parker's career benefited from the boost in NBA salaries that has taken things to unforeseeable levels of late. It'll take another decent contract for Jordan Poole to have Parker supplanted out of this spot soon.

#29 Overall

Cory Joseph, $71,183,160, 2011

The #29 pick holds the lowest earning player on this list, but Derrick White & Dejounte Murray are coming for this spot soon (barely).

#30 Overall

Jimmy Butler, $218,065,231, 2011

By the time the 2025-26 season is completed, the #30 overall pick will have one of the top earning players in the history of the game attached to it. Butler has salaries of $45.1M, $48.8M, & $52.4M ahead of him still, locking in over $364M for his career.

RELATED: Top Earning NBA Players by Draft Pick

As the NFL offseason turns from business to practice, a snapshot look at the top of the mountain for each position's financial market, including metrics for average salary and practical guarantee, and the days since the belt has last been passed.

Quarterback

The average QB salary pinnacle has been eclipsed twice this spring, with Jalen Hurts & Lamar Jackson leapfrogging Aaron Rodgers in recent weeks. Joe Burrow & Justin Herbert should have something to say about this very soon. From a guarantee standpoint, Deshaun Watson's unicorn contract remains top dog, with Lamar & Hurts filing in appropriately underneath him as a more true top metric.

TOP AAV

Lamar Jackson, $52,000,000
Signed Date: April 27, 2023

TOP GUARANTEE

Deshaun Watson, $230,000,000
Signed Date: March 18, 2022

Running Back

Not great. It's been over 1,100 days since the average salary and guarantee figure at the running back position has been reset. The Saquon Barkley's of the world are in the process of attemping, but McCaffrey's numbers seem safe for the time being.

TOP AAV

Christian McCaffrey, $16,015,875
Signed Date: April 13, 2020

TOP GUARANTEE

Christian McCaffrey, $38,162,500
Signed Date: April 13, 2020

Fullback

Kyle Juszczyk is on his third contract with the Niners and should eclipse the $42M earned mark this season, which more than doubles any other fullbacks career earnings in NFL history.

Top AAV

Kyle Juszczyk, $5,400,000
Signed Date: March 14, 2021

Top Guarantee

Kyle Juszczyk, $10,000,000
Signed Date: March 14, 2021

Wide Receiver

Tyreek Hill's $30M gets an asterisk because of the validity of it. His deal in Miami carries a $24M AAV for 4 years, with a whopping $45M cash payout set for an unlikely 5th year. Davante Adams' $28M is backloaded into the final two seasons of his deal, but Justin Jefferson's next contract could soon add plenty of substance back into this market.

Top AAV

Tyreek Hill, $30,000,000*
Signed Date: March 23, 2022

Top Guarantee

Cooper Kupp, $75,000,000
Signed Date: June 8, 2022

Tight End

A few tight ends have feebly taken over the AAV belt of late, but George Kittle's $40M practical guarantee has stuck for over 1,000 days. A big 2023 for Kyle Pitts in Atlanta could begin the process of changing that sooner rather than later.

Top AAV

Darren Waller, $17,000,000
Signed Date: September 10, 2022

Top Guarantee

George Kittle, $40,000,000
Signed Date: August 13, 2020 

Offensive Lineman

While the AAV market for OLs has matured exponentially, the guarantee numbers seem to be lagging behind a bit. It stands to reason that a position group with 7 players now earning $20M over more on average should have practical guarantees upwards of $75M. Andrew Thomas is a candidate to get there soon.

Top AAV

Laremy Tunsil, $25,000,000
Signed Date: March 19, 2023

Top Guarantee

Ronnie Stanley, $64,166,000
Signed Date: October 30, 2020

Interior Defensive Lineman

It's Aaron Donald's world and everyone else is just playing for 2nd. Well, the IDL market saw three consecutive brand new seconds this offseason, and Quinnen Williams, Christian Wilkins, & Chris Jones could have more to say about it shortly.

Top AAV

Aaron Donald, $31,666,666
Signed Date: June 6, 2022

Top Guarantee

Aaron Donald, $95,000,000
Signed Date: June 6, 2022

Edge Defender

It's been almost 650 days since the Edge Defender average salary market has been reset, and over 1,000 since Joey Bosa's $102M guarantee took over the top spot resepctively. There's no reason Nick Bosa shouldn't stand atop both of these lists soon.

Top AAV

T.J. Watt, $28,002,750
Signed Date: September 9, 2021

Top Guarantee

Joey Bosa, $102,000,000
Signed Date: July 28, 2020

Linebacker

The Ravens pumped $60M guaranteed into Roquan Smith after handing out two picks and a player to secure the rights to him las Halloween. Devin White & Patrick Queen are at least hoping to get a sniff of these numbers soon.

Top AAV

Roquan Smith, $20,000,000
Signed Date: January 10, 2023

Top Guarantee

Roquan Smith, $60,000,000
Signed Date: January 10, 2023

Cornerback

For awhile, the cornerback markets aligned closely with the wide receiver markets - for obvious reasons. While it's easy to look at Alexander's $21M versus Hill's $30M and see an ocean in between, there's only a $3.75M difference between the top practical guarantee figures ($75M vs. $71.25M). A.J. Terrell & Trevon Diggs are fringe candidates to approach these numbers soon.

Top AAV

Jaire Alexander, $21,000,000
Signed Date: May 16, 2022

Top Guarantee

Denzel Ward, $71,250,000
Signed Date: April 18, 2022

Safety

It's been almost a full calendar year since Derwin James reset both of these markets, and there's no clearcut next man up candidate right now. Antoine Winfield Jr. seems the closest in the clubhouse for now.

Top AAV

Derwin James, $19,133,000
Signed Date: August 17, 2022

Top Guarantee

Derwin James, $42,000,000
Signed Date: August 17, 2022

Kicker

Justin Tucker's contract is now nearly a year old, and his $17.5M guaranteed still sits $4.5M higher than any other kicker in the game (Matt Gay's free agent deal in Indy carries $13M).

Top AAV

Justin Tucker, $6,000,000
Signed Date: August 8, 2022

Top Guarantee

Justin Tucker, $17,500,000
Signed Date, August 8, 2022

Punter

All of Michael Dickson's $7.5M guarantee was paid out in Year 1 (2021), putting him back on a year to year contract in Seattle.

Top AAV

Michael Dickson, $3,675,000
Signed Date: June 4, 2021

Top Guarantee

Michael Dickson, $7,500,000
Signed Date: June 4, 2021

Long Snapper

The Patriots have financially rewarded special teamers for a long time, and that includes carrying the league's top-paid long snapper for 2023.

Top AAV

Joe Cardona, $1,575,000
Signed Date: March 16, 2023

Top Guarantee

Joe Cardona, $2,600,000
Signed Date: March 16, 2023