Thursday (1pm ET) was the deadline for arbitration-eligible players and teams to agree on a 2025 contract before exchanging salary figures.

A majority of the 201 eligible players agreed to terms but 17 did not and subsequently exchanged salaries. The two sides can continue negotiations after the salary exchange deadline.

RELATED: 2025 Arbitration Salary Tracker

17 Arbitration Filings

CHC - Kyle Tucker (OF)
Player Filed: $17,500,000 /  Team Filed: $15,000,000 / Difference: $2,500,000

WSH - Nathaniel Lowe (1B)
Player Filed: $11,100,000 / Team Filed: $10,300,000 / Difference: $800,000

SDP - Michael King (SP)
Player Filed: $8,800,000 / Team Filed: $7,325,000 / Difference: $1,475,000

MIL - William Contreras (C)
Player Filed: $6,500,000 / Team Filed: $5,600,000 / Difference: $900,000

LAA - Luis Rengifo (3B)
Player Filed: $5,950,000 / Team Filed: $5,800,000 / Difference: $150,000

BOS - Jarren Duran (OF)
Player Filed: $4,000,000 / Team Filed: $3,500,000 / Difference: $500,000

BAL - Jorge Mateo (SS)
Player Filed: $4,000,000 / Team Filed: $3,100,000 / Difference: $900,000

STL - Brendan Donovan (OF)
Player Filed: $3,300,000 / Team Filed: $2,850,000 / Difference: $450,000

STL - Lars Nootbaar (OF)
Player Filed: $2,950,000 / Team Filed: $2,450,000 / Difference: $500,000

NYY - Mark Leiter Jr. (RP)
Player Filed: $2,500,000 / Team Filed: $2,050,000 / Difference: $450,000

LAD - Alex Vesia (RP)
Player Filed: $2,350,000 / Team Filed: $2,050,000 / Difference: $300,000

STL - Andre Pallante (SP)
Player Filed: $2,100,000 / Team Filed: $1,925,000 / Difference: $175,000

PIT - Dennis Santana (RP)
Player Filed: $2,100,000 / Team Filed: $1,400,000 / Difference: $700,000

LAA - Mickey Moniak (OF)
Player Filed: $2,000,000 / Team Filed: $1,500,000 / Difference: $500,000

TBR - Taylor Walls (SS)
Player Filed: $1,575,000 / Team Filed: $1,300,000 / Difference: $275,000

PIT - Johan Oviedo (SP)
Player Filed: $1,150,000 / Team Filed: $850,000 / Difference: $300,000

LAA - Jose Quijada (RP)
Player Filed: $1,140,000 / Team Filed: $975,000 / Difference: $165,000

Chicago Bears

Caleb Williams enters Year 2 of his rookie contract, with cap hits of $8.9M, $10.7M, & $12.5M through 2027. He won’t become extension-eligible until after the 2026 season, and the Bears hold a 5th-year option on him in 2028 if needed.

QB2 Tyson Bagent is scheduled for restricted free agency this winter. Tendering him at the first right of refusal should cost around $3M in 2025.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Trevor Lawrence enters Year 2 of his 7 year, $306.3M total value contract in Jacksonville, set to earn $37.5M in 2025. His cap hits remain extremely team-friendly thanks to the use of a signing bonus & four option bonuses over the course of the contract (Lawrence stands to account for $17M of cap in 2025). There are early vesting guarantees through 2028 on this deal, making this at least a 4 year, $163M contract for practical purposes.

Backups Mac Jones & C.J. Beathard are both pending unrestricted free agents.

Las Vegas Raiders

$3.16M of Gardner Minshew’s 2025 salary is already fully guaranteed, but that only represents 25% of the $12.5M he’s set to be owed next season. He’s a keep, trade, and release candidate this offseason as he recovers from a collarbone injury.

Aidan O’Connell enter Year 3 of his rookie contract, set to earn $1M in 2025, and $1.1M in 2026 (barring a Proven Performance Bonus). The Raiders are certain to add another QB to the mix this offseason, but O’Connell’s near minimum, non-guaranteed contract should allow for him to compete in 2025.

The Raiders hold the #6 pick in the upcoming draft.

New England Patriots

Drake Maye enters Year 2 of his rookie contract, with cap hits of $8.3M, $9.9M, & $11.6M through 2027. He won’t become extension-eligible until after the 2026 season, and New England holds a 5th-year option in 2028 as needed.

Jacoby Brissett is a pending unrestricted free agent this March.

New Orleans Saints

Derek Carr has a fully guaranteed $10M roster bonus in 2025 to go along with a $30M base salary that becomes guaranteed March 14th. He’s already on the record stating he won’t be taking a pay cut this winter, so for now it appears imminent that he’ll remain with the Saints through 2025. He holds $50.1M of dead cap against a $51.4M salary cap figure for the upcoming season.

Spencer Rattler enters Year 2 of his rookie contract, with non-guaranteed minimum salaries on the books through 2027.

The Saints hold the #9 pick in the upcoming draft.

New York Jets

Aaron Rodgers’ $35M option bonus isn’t due until the start of the 2025 regular season, but it’s largely expected that a decision on his future in NY will come at the beginning of the league year (March 12th). The Jets would take on $49M of dead cap to release/trade the 41-year-old.

$2.5M of Tyrod Taylor’s $6M 2025 salary is fully guaranteed already, and his deal carries plenty of incentives to bump that up based on playing time and production. It stands to reason that Taylor could be in the Jets’ plans next season regardless of who else is brought in at the position.

The Jets hold the #7 pick in the upcoming draft.

Honorable Mention: Dallas Cowboys

With current HC Mike McCarthy’s contract set to expire in the coming days, it’s plausible that the Cowboys could find themselves in this mix sooner rather than later.

Dak Prescott is entering Year 2 of a 5 year, $274M contract, set to earn $47.75M in 2025. He holds a league-high $89.9M cap hit for the upcoming season that can (will) be lowered down to $52.7M after a salary conversion. The deal carries early vesting guarantees through 2027, making this a 3 year, $132.75M contract for practical purposes.

Cooper Rush & Trey Lance are both pending unrestricted free agents.

Today the NWSL released the schedule footprint as well as the competition calendar for the 2025 season. Here’s what you need to know:

Preseason Rosters

Under the new CBA, teams can begin preseason camps as soon as January 15th, and as late as February 5th. By the February 5th deadline, teams must submit their 40-player preseason roster to the league and get any trialist—non-rostered invitees or NRIs—agreements out. 

As far as rosters go by February 19th, teams need to be down to a 32-player roster, and then they need to be at full 22-26 player compliance by March 12th when the rosters are submitted to the league. Players can still be added after the March 12th deadline, but teams will need to remain in compliance on active players and salary cap until the end of 2025 after that point. 

During preseason there is a three-match FIFA Window from February 17th to the 26th, which will slightly disrupt the flow of teams’ preseason chemistry building, but it shouldn’t be as chaotic as the Concacaf W Gold Cup last year which lasted from February 20th to March 10th—less than a week before the regular season started in 2024. 

2025 Challenge Cup

The Challenge Cup started in 2020 as the Covid-bubble replacement for a regular season. In 2021 and 2022 it transformed into a fully preseason tournament, and in 2023 it morphed again into a tournament interwoven with the regular season—being played as mid-week games and the summer international window. 

Last year the Challenge Cup went through its (final?) iteration, becoming a single match played ahead of the regular season between the NWSL Shield winner (top of the regular season table), and the NWSL Championship winner. Since last season the Orlando Pride won both the NWSL Shield and the NWSL Championship, this year’s Challenge Cup will be a replay of the 2024 NWSL Championship game as the Orlando Pride take on the Washington Spirit on Friday, March 7th.

Regular Season & Playoffs

The regular season will kick off on Friday March 14th this year, roughly the same time as the regular season started in 2024. The playoffs also aim for similar weekends with the NWSL Quarterfinals being November 7-9, Semifinals November 14-16, and the NWSL Championship November 22nd. 

The NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup does not appear to be making a re-appearance in 2025 following its inaugural run last summer during the time when international players were away preparing for and playing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. In its stead the league has decided that NWSL clubs will be able to plan their own friendlies/competitions in the month of July while FIFA regulated competitions are ongoing.

Transfer Windows 

The major change from 2024 is that there are no longer trade windows, so up until the October 9th roster freeze, players can be traded—within the league—at any time as long as the trades have the required player approval. 

For players coming from abroad, the transfer windows are when the NWSL can accept an International Transfer Certificate (ITC). International players (or domestic players abroad) can sign outside of the transfer windows, but they cannot play in a game until the ITC has gone through during an open window. For 2025, the Primary Transfer Window goes from January 28th until March 24th (one week after the regular season starts), and the Secondary Window will open up on July 1st and close on August 25th. 

Another change that comes with the new CBA is that starting July 1st, 2026 free agents will be able to sign with new teams for the 2026 season. 

As a reminder, per the new CBA, there is no more waiver wire and all contracts are guaranteed.

Hideki Matsuyama wins The Sentry. Matsuyama earns $3.6 million bringing his 2025 on-course earnings to $3.6 million and his career on-course earnings to $52.68 million. 

The Sentry Top 10 Payouts

Full Results

2025 Earnings Leaders Update

Full List

January 7 isn’t a well-known date on the NBA calendar, but it should be. Many know that on January 10, all NBA contracts become fully guaranteed. What isn’t as well-known is that in order for a team to not have a fully guaranteed deal land on their books for the rest of the season, they have to make a decision by January 7.

Teams must waive players on partial/non-guaranteed deals by January 7 in order for them to clear waivers before January 10. (The waiver period is 48 hours). Thus, while January 10 is the technical date that all contracts become fully guaranteed, January 7 is the functional deadline.

There are 23 players in limbo before the January 7 deadline. Here are the decisions NBA teams must make. (All salary amounts reflect the player’s fully guaranteed cap hit.)

Atlanta Hawks

No guarantee decisions

Boston Celtics

No guarantee decisions

Brooklyn Nets

Keon Johnson - $2,162,606

Johnson is going to stick in Brooklyn. He’s become a starter and he’s young enough to be part of whatever the Nets are building next. Johnson is the kind of diamond-in-the-rough that Sean Marks had success with during his first rebuild.

Jalen Wilson - $1,891,857

Wilson is also going be with the Nets beyond the guarantee deadline. He’s another rotation guy, and sometimes-starter for Jordi Fernandez. Wilson isn’t going anywhere.

Charlotte Hornets

Taj Gibson - $2,087,519

If the Hornets feel they need an open roster spot, they could cut Gibson loose. Charlotte is also more than $10 million under the tax. That means the Hornets could always waive Gibson down the line if they need a roster spot without creating a tax issue. Bet on the veteran locker room leader sticking around in Charlotte.

Chicago Bulls

Talen Horton-Tucker - $2,087,519

Horton-Tucker is a regular in Billy Donovan’s rotation. The Bulls are also expected to be active at the trade deadline. So, despite an overstuffed backcourt rotation, Horton-Tucker will stay in Chicago.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Sam Merrill - $2,164,993

Merrill may not stick as a rotation player as the Cavs get healthy, but he’s not going anywhere either. Cleveland has had injury issues on the wing, so Merrill stays as a quality depth player for a title contender.

Craig Porter Jr. - $1,891,857

Porter is already $1 million guaranteed, so that alone probably keeps him on the Cleveland roster. But he’s also become a solid third point guard, and the Cavaliers have him for two more full seasons beyond this one. Porter isn’t going anywhere.

Tristan Thompson - $2,087,519

Thompson is a respected locker room voice. He’s also proven to be a decent depth player, when other bigs are out. Thompson will see his deal guaranteed.

Dallas Mavericks

Markieff Morris - $2,087,519

The Mavericks have been active in trade talks, but most trade configurations see Dallas giving up more players than they bring back. Morris is locker room leader for Jason Kidd, so he’s likely to stick around Dallas for the season.

Denver Nuggets

No guarantee decisions

Detroit Pistons

No guarantee decisions

Golden State Warriors

Gui Santos - $1,891,857

The Warriors are so tight around their first apron hard cap, that they have to keep Santos. Replacing him with a non-drafted player would cause Golden State to see a higher than desirable tax hit, which causes further hard cap issues. Santos will stay beyond the guarantee deadline.

Lindy Waters III - $2,196,970

Waters is a rotation regular for Steve Kerr. He’s not going anywhere. As stated above, it would be hard for the Warriors to find any kind of replacement if they did cut Waters loose.

Houston Rockets

No guarantee decisions

Indiana Pacers

James Johnson - $2,087,519

Last season, Indiana cut Johnson loose, then brought him back after making other roster moves. Something similar could occur this season. One other thing to keep in mind: The Pacers are around $800,000 below the luxury tax. They won’t be paying the tax, so Johnson could be waived and re-signed later to create more space under the tax.

James Wiseman - $2,237,691

Wiseman is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. This one is probably about needing a roster spot. If the Pacers need one, Wiseman might be cut loose. Otherwise, he’ll keep working on coming back to be a part of Indiana’s rotation next season.

LA Clippers

No guarantee decisions

Los Angeles Lakers

No guarantee decisions

Memphis Grizzlies

No guarantee decisions

Miami Heat

No guarantee decisions

Milwaukee Bucks

Andre Jackson Jr. - $1,891,857

Jackson is a starter for the Bucks and the team’s best perimeter defender. He’s also got two more seasons on his deal beyond this one. He’s on one of the most team-friendly contracts in the league in terms of cost vs production. Jackson isn’t going anywhere. 

Minnesota Timberwolves

No guarantee decisions

New Orleans Pelicans

Zion Williamson - $36,725,670

Williamson’s deal is half-guaranteed for almost $18.4 million. That alone means he’s not getting waived. But the talent is still there. The Pelicans aren’t ready to make this move now. After next season, if Williamson keeps missing time with injuries, we could be looking at a different story. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.

New York Knicks

Ariel Hukporti - $1,064,049

After all the machinations to get to the minimum roster requirements following the Karl-Anthony Towns trade, the Knicks signed Hukporti to a standard deal. Tight margins under their first apron hard cap, combined with Hukporti’s upside, means he’s not going anywhere.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Branden Carlson - $990,895

Carlson is on the roster bubble in Oklahoma City. The Thunder will likely prioritize the flexibility of having an open roster spot over keeping Carlson. Keep an eye on Oklahoma City bringing him back into the fold down the line, if the opportunity arises.

Jaylin Williams - $2,019,699

Williams is healthy now and providing frontcourt depth for the Thunder. He’s not going anywhere. The real story to watch here is if Oklahoma City declines their 2025-26 team option to make Williams a restricted free agent this summer. That would allow the Thunder to control Williams’ free agency, as they’d like to retain him long-term.

Orlando Magic

No guarantee decisions

Philadelphia 76ers

Ricky Council IV - $1,891,857

Council gives Nick Nurse wing depth on a team-friendly deal. Given Philadelphia is already over the tax, they need players like Council to provide minutes on minimum-type deals. Council will see his deal guaranteed.

Phoenix Suns

No guarantee decisions

Portland Trail Blazers

Dalano Banton - $2,196,970

Banton has been a rotation regular for Chauncey Billups since arriving at last season’s trade deadline. He’ll have his deal guaranteed for the rest of the season. This summer, we’ll get a sense of how much Portland values Banton’s ability to provide perimeter scoring.

Sacramento Kings

Jae Crowder - $1,655,619

Crowder was added earlier this season to give the Kings additional forward depth. He hasn’t played very much however, and Sacramento interim head coach Doug Christie doesn’t seem to have room for Crowder in his rotation. There’s a 50-50 chance Crowder is waived for roster flexibility for the Kings approaching the trade deadline.

Doug McDermott - $2,087,519

McDermott has been in and out of the Kings rotation. He can still shoot, but doesn’t offer a whole lot else. Much like Crowder, Sacramento could waive McDermott for flexibility with their roster and to create a bit more wiggle room under the luxury tax line.

Orlando Robinson - $2,087,519

Robinson is in the same spot as Crowder and McDermott. He doesn’t have a regular role, and the Kings may want roster flexibility and more space under the tax line. The best guess here is that one of these three veterans is cut loose before the guarantee deadline.

San Antonio Spurs

No guarantee decisions

Toronto Raptors

Bruno Fernando - $2,087,519

Fernando hasn’t been a rotation player for the rebuilding Raptors. Now that their frontcourt is healthy, Toronto is likely to move on before Fernando’s deal guarantees. That will allow the Raptors to cycle through some players to see if someone proves to be a long-term fit for the roster.

Utah Jazz

No guarantee decisions

Washington Wizards

No guarantee decisions

As the calendar flips to 2025, Spotrac dives into 10 looming scenarios that could come to fruition in the coming weeks and months, including potential trades, extensions, releases, & retirements.

The New York Jets and QB Aaron Rodgers

Rodgers is due a non-guaranteed $37.5M in 2025, including a $35M option bonus that doesn’t need to be exercised until the beginning of the regular season. While his $23.5M cap figure next season isn’t overly restraining, it seems wildly unlikely that a Jets/Rodgers relationship will continue.

The contract carries $49M of dead cap due to previously paid out bonuses. The Jets will have the choice to take that all on in 2025, designate him a Post June 1st release (splitting the cap into $14M for 2025/$35M for 2026), or simply waiting until after June 1st to process a release (or a potential Rodgers retirement).

Prediction: The Jets outright release Aaron Rodgers in early March, taking on all $49M of dead cap in 2025 as they look to fully reset their roster & financials. Rodgers takes the spring to assess his options, ultimately opting for retirement after 20 seasons.

The Buffalo Bills and QB Josh Allen

Allen’s contract was adjusted this past March to bring money forward, giving the 28-year-old a $60M base payout in 2024. There’s another $5M available based on playoffs & and MVP win. The maneuver leaves just $14.5M of base cash available in 2025 now, making it very likely that another adjustment will be necessary.

Allen has 4 years, $129.5M remaining on his contract through 2028, a $32.3M APY. With top QB contracts now nearly doubling this mark, it stands to reason that the Bills could opt to start fresh with a brand new deal for the 28-year-old.

Prediction: The Bills and Josh Allen agree to a 5 year, $290 million renegotiated contract through the 2029 season that includes $232M guaranteed for practical purposes. 

The Cleveland Browns and DE Myles Garrett

The last place Browns possess 8 contracts with a total value of $50M or more, putting the pressure on this front office to either get back to winning immediately - or start selling pieces to reduce the financial blow (and help mitigate a rebuild).

Garrett’s contract holds 2 years, $44.7M remaining on it, and the league’s top edge rushers will soon be approaching $40M per year (especially after Micah Parsons and T.J. Watt lock in new deals this offseason). Cleveland will be pressured into considering a Garrett extension this Spring as well, but it might not be in the best interest for their current window.

Prediction: The Browns trade Myles Garrett to the Arizona Cardinals for a 1st, 3rd, & 5th round draft pick. Arizona signs Garrett to a 4 year, $140 million renegotiated contract through 2028 that includes $91M guaranteed.

The Green Bay Packers and Jaire Alexander

The Packers have pushed a lot of right buttons over the course of the past decade or so, but the 4 year, $84 million extension for Alexander might go down as a bit of a miss (at least according to their standards). After an outstanding 2022 campaign, the 27-year-old has missed significant time in each of the past two seasons, putting his future in Green Bay in serious doubt.

Alexander’s contract contains 2 years, $37M remaining, but none of it is guaranteed, and there are no early offseason bonuses to contend with.

Prediction: The Packers release Jaire Alexander this March, taking on a $19.1M dead cap hit, freeing up $6.7M of space. Alexander signs a 1 year, $10M contract with the New England Patriots for the 2025 season.

The Minnesota Vikings and their Quarterbacks

Minnesota will be a must-follow franchise for the next few months as they navigate one of the best problems in all of sports: too many quarterbacks at their disposal.

Sam Darnold’s 2024 was a revelation, setting up the Vikings to put #10 overall pick J.J. McCarthy in a holding pattern until further notice. Darnold is a pending free agent, so the decision to keep him will prove expensive. But losing him could prove even more costly.

Prediction: The Vikings apply a $39M+ franchise tag on Sam Darnold, then trade J.J. McCarthy to the Las Vegas Raiders days before the NFL Draft. Darnold and the Vikings agree on a 4 year, $196M extension before the July 15 deadline that includes $110M guaranteed.

The Cincinnati Bengals and Tee Higgins

Life is just better in Cincinnati when Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins are all on the field together. Higgins, the top pending free agent according to our rankings, hasn’t negotiated with the Bengals in months, setting up a likely exit this March.

With Chase likely to reset the WR market (currently $35M APY, $110M guaranteed), the idea of paying both he and Higgins this spring seems nearly impossible for a Bengals franchise that has been selective with their finances. But that doesn’t mean they have no path forward…

Prediction: The Bengals slap a 2nd franchise tag on Tee Higgins, which comes in at $26.18M for the 2025 season, setting up a holdout battle with the 25-year-old. Higgins signs the tag before the start of the season, and the band gets back together one last time.

The New York Jets and RB Breece Hall

From A-Z, the Jets organization appears to be at a crossroads, setting up an opportunity for rostered players nearing next contract negotiations to be poached.

Running back appears to be one of the deeper positions on this Jets roster, setting them up to float Hall in trade discussions this March as they look to bulk up on draft picks for the pending rebuild. Hall’s deal contains 2 years, $3.4M remaining, none of which is guaranteed.

Prediction: The Jets trade RB Breece Hall to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 3rd & 6th round pick.

The Las Vegas Raiders and Maxx Crosby

Crosby will enter 2025 with 2 years, $42.8M remaining on his contract, but none of it guaranteed and no early offseason bonuses built in. He was an often vocalized name at the trade deadline, despite both he and the team publicly claiming they remain committed. But the team has continued to downslide and the roster appears to be very much in flux.

Crosby should be seeking a new deal this spring, but does it make sense for he and the Raiders to lock in to something significant right now? It’ll take an aggressive offseason to begin to truly right this ship - but that’s exactly what we’re anticipating here.

Prediction: The Raiders and Maxx Crosby agree to a 3 year, $100 million extension through 2029, including $66M fully guaranteed.

The Pittsburgh Steelers and Russell Wilson

Don’t leave Russ for dead just yet. The Steelers dodged more than a few bullets this season to remain relevant both in the AFC North and into the postseason. Wilson isn’t statistically close to what he once was, nor is he capable of single-handedly leading an offense into contention, but he’s a clear fit with this Steelers setup for the short-term.

The 36-year-old pending free agent is likely seeking one final contract this offseason.

Prediction: The Steelers and Russell Wilson agree to a 3 year, $100M contract extension through 2027, including $45M fully guaranteed.

The San Francisco 49ers and Brock Purdy

This is becoming one of the tougher reads of the looming offseason, as a wonderful story and dynamically exciting team came to a crashing halt in 2024. Purdy battled his own injuries this season, but even when healthy, didn’t appear capable of elevating a weakened offense to higher places. Was 2024 just an overall mess to be ignored, or is it proof of a much lower future ceiling (confirming his original draft position)?

It was perfectly plausible to evaluate Purdy’s looming extension along the lines of Jordan Love, Trevor Lawrence, or even Joe Burrow based on his ability to both navigate and manage one of the top teams in all of football for multiple seasons.

It now seems perfectly plausible to evaluate Purdy a tier below that threshold, especially with the growing sense that the 49ers aren’t going to be negotiating against another other NFL team for Purdy’s services going forward (a mistake the Giants made with Daniel Jones 2+ years ago).

As a Pro Bowler in 2023, Purdy’s 2025 salary will escalate from $1.1M to an estimated $5.2M based on the Proven Performance Bonus available to non-first-rounders. Will the Niners ask Purdy to play out his rookie contract before making any significant decisions? Or will Purdy feel he’s capable of holding out to ensure he garners the long-term guarantee he deserves (a tactic more than a few 49ers have taken in recent offseasons).

Prediction: The 49ers offer Brock Purdy a well-below-market 3 year, $105M extension, including $50M guaranteed. Purdy declines the offer, holds out most of the summer, then returns to play on his $5M salary for 2025, setting up free agency or a potential franchise tag in 2026.

NBA decision-makers recently spent a week in Orlando for the 2024 G League Showcase. The Westchester Knicks took home the Showcase Cup for the second straight season, but the main reason for the event was for NBA front office executives to mingle together. It’s considered the cousin to Major League Baseball’s Winter Meetings, as a space where NBA trade talks take off in full. This season, teams got a jump on the trade process, as we’ve already seen three December deals, including two before the Showcase even took place.

The other purpose of the event is for G League players to show out for NBA front office personnel. Many rostered players have stood out during the first part of the G League season. This includes players on standard contracts and players signed to two-way deals. But it’s the other guys, the free agents, who need the Showcase to earn an NBA callup.

These callups could occur via a 10-day contract. Teams are allowed to sign players to 10-day deals starting on January 5. The other option is further shuffling of two-way contracts.

As of this writing, 11 teams have an open standard roster spot:

• Boston Celtics
• Cleveland Cavaliers
• Detroit Pistons
• Golden State Warriors
• Houston Rockets
• Miami Heat
• Minnesota Timberwolves
• New Orleans Pelicans
• New York Knicks
• Philadelphia 76ers
• Phoenix Suns

In addition, there are two teams with open two-way spots:

• Golden State Warriors
• Orlando Magic

Other roster spots will open up as teams make trades (the trade deadline is February 8) or if teams waive players (the last day to waive players before contracts guarantee is January 7).

The following players have stood out, both in the early part of the G League season and at the Showcase event in Orlando. Others have been mentioned regularly by NBA scouts and front office executives as players who might garner a callup from the G League.

This time, we’re going to split the list up a bit differently. We’re going to present some NBA veterans playing in the G League that that are familiar names. Then we’ll get into the deeper names to know, before finishing with a bit of a bonus list of guys outside of the NBA orbit right now.

(Note: This list is presented in no particular order. It is not a ranking of any kind!)

All stats as of January 1, 2024 and provided by RealGM’s G League Database

NBA Veterans in the G League

Guards

Jaylen Nowell – Capital City Go-Go, SG, 6’4’’, 25 years old

Nowell has bounced on and off NBA rosters for the past couple of seasons. He’s certainly too good of a player to stay in the G League, but he hasn’t been able to find an NBA home either. This season, Nowell is averaging 26.4 points on robust 56/51/88 shooting splits. When a team needs some scoring punch, they’d do well to look in Nowell’s direction.

Trey Burke – Mexico City Capitanes, PG, 6’0’’, 32 years old

Yep, that Trey Burke! He’s still going and he’s playing really well for the G League’s only unaffiliated team. Burke is putting up 20.3 points and 5.3 assists per game. He’s also shooting fairly well with 46/39/87 splits. We’ve seen NBA teams go with veterans when they need a point guard in a pinch. That could be Burke’s path back to the NBA.

Wings

Nassir Little – Sioux Falls Skyforce, SG/SF, 6’6’’, 24 years old

Little is an NBA player. There should be no question about that. He’s already had productive NBA years and he’s still only 24 years old. What’s really encouraging is that instead of sulking about not being in the NBA, Little has gone to one of the G League’s furthest-flung outposts and just put in work. He’s been one of the best all-around players in the G League this year. He’ll be back on an NBA roster soon, and probably as more than just a 10 Day callup.

Juan Toscano-Anderson – Mexico City Capitanes, SF/SG, 6’6’’, 31 years old

It’s been a few years since Toscano-Anderson emerged as a rotation find for the Golden State Warriors. All of that shine is off, but he’s still a tough, defensive-minded wing. If Toscano-Anderson shot it more consistently, he’d probably be on an NBA team already. But there’s room for him if a team needs a guy who can hold his own defending 1-4.

Forwards

Eugene Omoruyi – Raptors 905, SF, 6’6’’, 27 years old

Omoruyi has played himself into a callup before. He’s right on the fringe of being on an NBA roster. This season, he’s refocused a bit as more of a finisher and defender. That focus has Omoruyi hitting 59.2% from the floor, while grabbing 7.9 rebounds. He’s the kind of athlete that teams like, because Omoruyi can be pretty plug-and-play in a pinch.

T.J. Warren – Westchester Knicks, SF/PF, 6’8’’, 31 years old

Warren is way overqualified for the G League. He’s scoring with relative ease at the minor league level. The good news is that he looks healthy. That’s what has kept Warren off NBA rosters the last few seasons. When a team needs a forward who can score, they’d do well to give Warren a look.

Bigs

Moses Brown – Westchester Knicks, C, 7’2’’’, 25 years old

Brown already spent part of the season on the Indiana Pacers roster. He’s clearly on the verge of being in the NBA again. In the G League, he’s one of the best rebounders and rim protectors in the league. Brown uses his size to dominate on the interior. That’s come together in flashes in the NBA. Look for an NBA team to bet on Brown being the classic late-bloomer center with another shot in the big league.

G Leaguers to know

Guards

Jalen Crutcher – Birmingham Squadron, PG, 6’1’’, 25 years old

Crutcher has seen NBA time before, but he’s mostly been in the G League. That seems on the verge of changing. Crutcher is an improved playmaker, as he’s now regularly breaking down defenses to set up his teammates. He’s also become a high-volume three-point shooter, as he’s hitting 38% on 9.2 three-point attempts per game. Crutcher can be an NBA-caliber backup point guard, when he gets his chance.

Markquis Nowell – Rio Grande Valley Vipers, PG, 5’7’’, 25 years old

Nowell is someone whose name came up a lot in talks with NBA front office personnel. It was usually qualified with “if he was bigger” and/or “if he just shot better”. Nowell is tiny and he’s struggled to finish inside of the arc. But he’s a top-tier playmaker and an on-ball pest of the highest order. Nowell has even blocked 17 shots in 19 games too. He might not get a shot, because of his size and his lack of finishing, but Nowell is getting more attention game by game.

Ethan Thompson – Osceola Magic, SG, 6’5’’, 25 years old

Thompson is one of the best and most efficient scorers in the G League. He’s gotten there by becoming a volume shooter, as he’s knocked down 41.9% of his 8.6 three-point attempts per game. This season, Thompson is playing more defense too. Look for a potential late-season callup when a team needs someone who can put the ball in the hoop.

Jaden Shackelford – Valley Suns, SG, 6’3’’, 23 years old

If Shackelford was a bit bigger, he’d probably already be on an NBA roster. His lack of size works against him defensively. Offensively, Shackelford has it all. He’s got a quick release and can really score. He’s not much of a playmaker, which hurt him being the size of a combo guard. Think old-school bench scoring guard and you’ve got what Shackelford can bring to an NBA team.

Wings

Jarrett Culver – Osceola Magic, SG/SF, 6’6’’, 25 years old

Culver has a little bit of Kris Dunn in him. Dunn went to the G League, reestablished himself and fought his way back to the NBA. Culver could be next. He’s still not much of a shooter, but Culver has played really well on defense and can do a little bit of everything on offense, including running the show. His NBA story hasn’t been fully written yet.

Paul Watson – Valley Suns, SG/SF, 6’6’’, 30 years old

We’re getting close to “now or never” time for Watson, but the time could be now. He’s a shooter with size now, as opposed to trying to do everything on offense. Watson focusing on being a 3&D guy has him playing the best ball of his long G League career. He could have one more run at the NBA in him.

Buddy Boeheim – Oklahoma City Blue, SG/SF, 6’5’’, 25 years old

Boeheim is a one-skill guy, but that one skill is pretty good. Boeheim is hitting 42.4% on a whopping 10.1 three-point attempts per game. Given how much NBA teams value shooting, that has him getting another look from the league. Sometimes being really good at the one thing you can do pays off, and that seems to be the case for Boeheim.

Forwards

Reggie Perry – Greensboro Swarm, PF, 6’8’’, 24 years old

Perry is undersized center in a power forward’s body. He attacks the glass like a big man, and that’s got him on the NBA radar. Perry is also a rugged defender with some switchability. Most exciting? He’s hit 40.5% from deep, albeit on a small sample size. Perry is a guy to keep an eye on for sure.

Maozinha Pereira – Memphis Hustle, PF, 6’8’’, 24 years old

Pereira got a callup with the Grizzlies last season and held his own in the NBA. That sent him back to the G League with a mission: Rounding out his offensive game. Periera is relentless worker on defense and on the boards. However, without a reliable jumper, his lack of size will keep him from making it in the NBA. This year in the G League, Pereira is taking more jumpers than ever. It’s a major work in progress, but the form looks good. Periera will be back in the NBA. Even more: Periera will eventually be an NBA rotation guy too.

Warith Alatishe – Texas Legends, SF/PF, 6’7’’, 24 years old

None of the raw numbers really jump out at you on Alatishe’s stat sheet. But you watch him play and he’s just everywhere. He’s always doing stuff. Alatishe is a constant blur of motion and energy, and he plays REALLY hard too. Guys like that tend to find their way onto an NBA roster eventually.

Cam Martin – Motor City Cruise, PF, 6’9’’, 26 years old

Martin looks like a potential stretch big for an NBA team. He’s rediscovered the shot, which made him a prospect to watch way back in 2021 at Missouri Southern State in Division 2. Martin can also get on the glass and is a solid ball-mover and screener too. There’s something here.

Bigs

Ibou Badji – Wisconsin Herd, C, 7’0’’, 22 years old

At some point a guy goes from “raw prospect” to a guy who just never put it together. Badji is still in the former camp for at least one more year. A year on a two-way deal with Portland didn’t do a whole lot for him, but there’s a raw skillset with Badji that is so enticing. He’s got to get stronger and he needs to learn how to play, but the athleticism at his size will keep getting Badji NBA looks.

Jamarion Sharp – Texas Legends, C, 7’5’’, 23 years old

Sharp is an absolutely massive human being. His collegiate career was weird, but Sharp is putting things together in the G League. As one would hope for a 7-foot-5 center, he’s an outstanding shot-blocker and a good rebounder. What’s exciting is that Sharp is showing off improved touch around the basket. He needs work, but there’s talent here. Could be a good two-way candidate for a team that develops big men.

Non-G League Veterans to Watch

Lonnie Walker IV – Zalgiris (Lithuania), SG, 6’4’’, 26 years old

Walker is a known quantity at this point. He can score and shoot. He doesn’t do a lot else, but Walker does those things well enough that teams like him. With Zalgiris, Walker has looked good. He’s drawing lots of NBA interest and wouldn’t be a surprise to see him land with a team before the season ends.

Markelle Fultz – Free Agent, PG, 6’4’’, 26 years old

Fultz has been working through a reported knee issue. That’s kept him from signing a deal to this point. When healthy, he’s expected to draw interest from teams looking for an on-ball playmaker. Fultz might have to play on a 10 Day contract or two to prove himself healthy, but a full NBA deal will come eventually for him.

Dennis Smith Jr. – Free Agent, PG, 6’3’’, 27 years old

Smith put together a solid season for the Brooklyn Nets last year. Teams love his defense, but it’s the lack of reliable jumper that has him still looking for an NBA spot. Smith signed with the G League, but didn’t land where he wanted, so he hasn’t played a game yet. He’ll pop up when a team has a need for some on-ball defense in their backcourt.

Oshae Brissett – Free Agent, PF/SF, 6’7’’, 26 years old

Brissett was a beloved member of the Boston Celtics locker room last season. He’s had overseas offers, but has held off while hoping for another NBA job. Brissett is likely to catch on when a team needs a forward. He’s reportedly stayed in great shape and looks good according to those who have seen him play.

Robert Covington – Free Agent, PF, 6’7’’, 34 years old

Covington played in a couple of games for Team USA in AmeriCup Qualifiers in November. He looked good enough that a handful of NBA teams put him on their lists to keep an eye on. If Covington is willing to go the 10 Day route, don’t be surprised if a team with a need for some frontcourt defense and shooting gives him a look.

The latest addition to Spotrac's NFL team views focuses on player incentives, including real-time tracking for many performance thresholds. We've detailed a few of the more notable 2024 scenarios heading into Week 18.

RELATED: 2024 NFL INCENTIVES TRACKER

Arizona Cardinals

QB Kyler Murray is 50 rushing yards plus 1 rushing touchdown away from a $750,000 salary escalator. The 27-year-old has 4 years, $158M remaining on his contract.

EDGE Zaven Collins is 1 sack away from a $300,000 incentive. The 25-year-old enters Week 18 with 4 sacks, and $3.25M of his 2025 salary is fully guaranteed.

All Cardinals Incentives

Baltimore Ravens

RB Derrick Henry has already maxed out his rush yards and touchdown incentives, scoring him an extra $2M in 2024. The 30-year-old can add another $500,000 to his pockets with a Ravens Super Bowl win. Henry carries a non-guaranteed $7M salary in 2025.

OLB Kyle Van Noy has already locked in $500,000 worth of sack/playing time bonuses. He can add another $250,000 with a half sack this weekend. The 33-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $3.75M in 2025.

RB Justice Hill is 8 catches away from a $250,000 bonus. $1M of the 27-year-old’s 2025 salary is already fully guaranteed.

All Ravens Incentives

Buffalo Bills

QB Josh Allen can secure a $1.5M bonus if he’s named NFL MVP. The 28-year-old can add another $3.5M if the Bills win the AFC Championship Game ($1M) and Super Bowl ($2.5M). Allen has 4 years, $129.5M remaining on his contract, but only $14.5M is currently allocated to 2025.

OLB Von Miller has already secured $2.5M with 5 sacks. He can add another $1.5M with 1 more this weekend. The 35-year-old has 3 years, $67.5M remaining on his contract, though non of it is guaranteed.

CB Taron Johnson is 1 interception away from a $250,000 bonus. The 28-year-old is fully guaranteed through 2025 at $10.1M.

TE Dawson Knox has already locked in $750,000 worth of bonus/2025 salary escalators. He’s 8 catches, 89 yards away from another $200,000 bump. $4.5M of the 28-year-old’s 2025 compensation is fully guaranteed.

DL DaQuon Jones is a half sack away from a $250,000 bonus. $2.25M of the 33-year-old’s 2025 salary is fully guaranteed.

All Bills Incentives

Carolina Panthers

With just over 60% of the snaps taken, DE A’Shawn Robinson is inline for a $1M pay bump. The 29-year-old has 2 years, $15.1M remaining on his contract.

All Panthers Incentives

Chicago Bears

OL Coleman Shelton has easily maxed out $500,000 in playing time bonuses. The 29-year-old is a pending UFA.

Cincinnati Bengals

TE Mike Gesicki has already locked in a $375,000 of bonuses for receptions & receiving yards. He can add another $125,000 with 3 receiving yards this weekend. The 29-year-old is a pending UFA.

All Bengals Incentives

Dallas Cowboys

DE Carl Lawson has already secured $125,000 for 5 sacks. 2 more in Week 18 would double that. The 29-year-old is a pending UFA.

DT Linval Joseph is 1 sack away from a $100,000 bonus. The 36-year-old is a pending UFA.

QB Cooper Rush has already secured a $250,000 playing time bonus this season. He can double that by taking every Week 18 snap.

All Cowboys Incentives

Denver Broncos

WR Courtland Sutton is 82 receiving yards away from maxing out a $2M bonus. The 29-year-old has already locked in $1.5M, and he holds a non-guaranteed $14M salary in 2025.

LB Cody Barton has already secured $1.25M based on playing time this year. He can add another $250,000 with 1 interception this weekend. The 28-year-old is a pending UFA.

All Broncos Incentives

Detroit Lions

QB Jared Goff can add $1M to his 2028 salary if he’s named NFL MVP. The 30-year-old has 4 years, $160M remaining on his contract.

DE Za’Darius Smith needs 2 sacks in Week 18 to secure a $250,000 bonus. The 32-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $11M in 2025.

All Lions Incentives

Green Bay Packers

CB Keisean Nixon is 1 interception away from a $50,000 bonus. The 27-year-old has 2 years, $9.6M remaining on his contract.

All Packers Incentives

Houston Texans

RB Joe Mixon is 107 rushing yards away from a $250,000 bonus. The 28-year-old has 2 years, $16M remaining on his contract, and $4M of his 2025 salary is fully guaranteed.

DT Tim Settle has eclipsed 50% snaps, securing him a $500,000 incentive for 2024. The 27-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $2.5M in 2025.

All Texans Incentives

Indianapolis Colts

DE Tyquan Lewis needs 1.5 sacks this weekend to secure a $100,000 bonus. He’s also on pace to add a $500,000 playing time bump. The 29-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $4.79M in 2025.

All Colts Incentives

Kansas City Chiefs

QB Patrick Mahomes can add $1.25M with a Super Bowl Win. The 29-year-old has 7 years, $315.7M remaining on his contract.

WR DeAndre Hopkins needs 9 catches for a $250,000 bonus. He also needs 140 receiving yards for another $250,000 bonus. With 5 touchdowns, he’s already secured a $250,000 incentive, but can add another $250,000 if he finds the end zone one more time.

WR Justin Watson has secured $400,000 based on playing time, and another $200,000 for 20+ receptions.

All Chiefs Incentives

Las Vegas Raiders

OLB Robert Spillane is on pace to max out his playing time incentive, which would secure him an extra $1M this season. The 29-year-old is a pending UFA.

With 32 receptions, RB Alexander Mattison has secured a $125,000 bonus. 8 more catches this weekend would double that.

All Raiders Incentives

Los Angeles Chargers

CB Kristian Fulton needs 1 more interception to lock in a $125,000 bonus. The 26-year-old is a pending UFA.

RB JK Dobbins has already secured $300,000 for his 842 rushing yards. Another 58 this weekend bumps that up to $450,000. Dobbins is a pending UFA.

EDGE Bud Dupree is 1 sack away from a $250,000 bonus. The 31-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $3M salary for 2025.

All Chargers Incentives

Los Angeles Rams

CB Darious Williams has already maxed out his playing time/playoff incentives, securing him an additional $2.5M this season. The 31-year-old has 2 years, $15.5M remaining, but can void the rest of his contract with a Pro Bowl nod this winter.

S Kamren Curl has already maxed out his playing time/playoff incentives, securing him an additional $2M this season. The 25-year-old is non-guaranteed $4.75M in 2025.

WR Demarcus Robinson has maxed out his $1M of playing time/playoff incentives. The 30-year-old is a pending UFA.

All Rams Incentives

Miami Dolphins

DE Zach Sieler has maxed out his $1.25M of performance incentives, raising his 2024 pay to $9.92M. The 29-year-old is under contract for 2 years, $15.95M remaining through 2026.

LB Tyrel Dodson needs 1 sack to secure a $300,000 bonus this weekend. The 26-year-old is a pending UFA.

DE Emmanuel Ogbah needs 1.5 sacks this weekend to secure a $500,000 bonus. The pending UFA has already maxed out $1.25M in playing time incentives.

DE Calais Campbell needs 1 sack this weekend to secure a $300,000 bonus. The 38-year-old is on pace to max out $725,000 in playing time incentives as well.

All Dolphins Incentives

Minnesota Vikings

LB Blake Cashman needs a half a sack this weekend to secure a $250,000 bonus. He’s on pace to max out his $250,000 playing time incentive as well.

All Vikings Incentives

New England Patriots

TE Hunter Henry secured a $1M bonus with his 66th reception last week. The 30-year-old has 2 years, $16.5M remaining on his contract, including a fully guaranteed $6.65M in 2025.

OLB Anfernee Jennings is on pace to secure a $1.5M playing time bonus, and can add another $400,000 with 1.5 sacks this weekend.

TE Austin Hooper secured a $125,000 bonus with his 41st catch of the season last week. 4 more this weekend doubles that.

All Patriots Incentives

New Orleans Saints

DT Khalen Saunders needs 1 sack and ample snaps to vest a $250,000 bonus this weekend. The 28-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $4M in 2025.

All Saints Incentives

New York Jets

OLB Haason Reddick had $5,341,728 of compensation converted to incentives per his holdout/renegotiation. Unfortunately he’s only on pace to secure $791,628 of it back. The 30-year-old is a pending UFA.

TE Tyler Conklin needs 1 catch to secure a $250,000 bonus. The 29-year-old is a pending UFA.

G John Simpson maxed out his $3M playing time escalator. He’s under contract through 2025 at $5.99M, $1M of which is fully guaranteed.

DT Javon Kinlaw needs a half sack to secure a $250,000 bonus. The 27-year-old is already on pace to max out $500,000 in playing time incentives.

OT Tyron Smith has secured $9.5M of playing time bonus this season.

All Jets Incentives

Philadelphia Eagles

RB Saquon Barkley has locked in $500,000 for posting 2,000+ yards from scrimmage. There’s another $750,000 tied to Pro Bowl & All-Pro nods, and another $500,000 available for Conf. Championship & Super Bowl wins.

All Eagles Incentives

San Francisco 49ers

DE Leonard Floyd has already secured $500,000 for 8.5 sacks. Another sack and a half this weekend doubles it.

WR Jauan Jennings has escalated his 2025 salary by the maximum $3.5M for 50% snaps played, 60+ receptions, 600+ receiving yards, and 6+ touchdowns this season.

OT Colton McKivitz has already vested a $485,000 bonus for playing time, and he can add another $135,000 to that if the 49ers remain Top 10 in Rushing Yards per Attempt (currently 7th) AND if the Niners climb into the Top 10 in Sacks Allowed (currently 11th).

All 49ers Incentives

Seattle Seahawks

QB Geno Smith has 5 passing stat categories he can cash in on. He’s 185 passing yards away from $2M, just over the 69.7% completion rate he needs for another $2M and 1 win away from yet another $2M.

K Jason Myers holds an 87.5% FG Made rate on kicks between 40-49 yards. If he keeps it over 85% this weekend, he’ll cash an extra $375,000.

All Seahawks Incentives

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

QB Baker Mayfield can secure $500,000 if he’s Top 5 in Passer Rating. He’s currently 4th. There’s another $500,000 available if he’s NFL Top 10 or NFC Top 5 in Completion %. He’s currently 2nd. There’s another $500,000 available if he’s NFL Top 10 or NFC Top 5 in Yards per Attempt. He’s currently 7th. He’s also easily on pace to secure an extra $1M for Top 10 finishes in Passing Yards and Passing TDs. This puts him on pace for a total of $2.5M in his pocket. There’s another $2.5M available in the postseason.

WR Mike Evans can add $3M to his 2025 salary with 5 catches and 85 receiving yards this weekend. He’s also easily on pace to secure a $666,668 bonus for being Top 10 in Receiving TDs. Another $2M of playoff incentives are available.

All Buccaneers Incentives

Tennessee Titans

S Amani Hooker secured $500,000 with his 5th interception. The 26-year-old is under contract through 2025 at a non-guaranteed $8.1M.

RB Tony Pollard needs 83 rushing yards to secure an extra $250,000. There’s another $200,000 available if he scores twice on the ground as well.

LB Kenneth Murray needs a half sack this weekend to secure a $250,000 bonus. The 26-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $7.5M for 2025.

EDGE Arden Key is a sack and a half away from securing a $500,000 bonus. The 28-year-old holds a non-guaranteed $7M in 2025.

All Titans Incentives

Washington Commanders

DE Dorance Armstrong needs 1 sack to secure a $250,000 incentive/escalator. The 27-year-old has 2 years, $16.1M remaining on his contract.

DE Dante Fowler Jr. needs a half sack this weekend to max out $1.5M of bonuses. He’s already secured $1.125M of that incentive, plus $500,000 based on playing time.

TE Zach Ertz has already secured $750,000 based on receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. He’s 9 catches, 90 yards, and 2 touchdowns away from further bonuses.

All Commanders Incentives

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced its 15 finalists this week, sparking us to open up the wayback machine to uncover their contract/earnings history.

CB Eric Allen 

Career Earnings: $25.4M
NFL Seasons: 14
Teams: Eagles, Saints, Raiders

Allen’s big contract came via a restricted free agent offer sheet from the New Orleans Saints. The Eagles refused to match the 5 year, $14 million contract that Allen would split between the Saints & Raiders through 1998.

DE Jared Allen

Career Earnings: $97.8M
NFL Seasons: 12
Teams: Chiefs Vikings, Bears, Panthers

Allen utilized free agency to his financial advantage, cashing in first with the Vikings ($73M+), then the Bears ($32M). He’s the 21st highest paid edge defender in league history at the time of this piece.

OT Willie Anderson

Career Earnings: $50.5M
NFL Seasons: 13
Teams: Bengals, Ravens

Spent 12 seasons with the Bengals, who drafted him #10 overall back in 1996, garnering contract extensions of $29.8M & $23.1M before moving on to Baltimore for one final year.

OG Jahri Evans

Career Earnings: $55.3M
NFL Seasons: 12
Teams: Saints, Packers

The 4th round selection back in 2006 secured a $56M+ free agent contract to remain in New Orleans 4 years later, setting up an 11-year run with the Saints.

TE Antonio Gates

Career Earnings: $70.9M
NFL Seasons: 16
Teams: Chargers

The undrafted free agent out of Kent State went on to earn over $70M in 16 illustrious seasons with the Chargers franchise, which still ranks 7th all-time among tight ends. 

WR Torry Holt

Career Earnings: $46.8M
NFL Seasons: 11
Teams: Rams, Jaguars

One of the key cogs in the Best Show on Turf, the #6 overall selection from the 1999 draft capitalized on a $42M contract extension with the Rams before the 2003 season.

LB Luke Kuechly

Career Earnings: $63.8M
NFL Seasons: 8
Teams: Panthers

The #9 overall pick in 2012 was a 5-time All-Pro, 7-time Pro Bowler and the beneficiary of a 5 year, $62 million extension with Carolina back in 2015. His career ended shorter than expected due to multiple injuries (notably concussion-based).

QB Eli Manning

Career Earnings: $252.2M
NFL Seasons: 16
Teams: Giants

The famously traded #1 overall pick back in 2004 helped the Giants secure 2 Super Bowls, while securing himself over $250M on the field (still 9th all-time). Eli’s contract history is fairly clean: a $45M rookie contract, a $97.5M first extension, and a final $84M extension.

WR Steve Smith Sr.

Career Earnings: $81M
NFL Seasons: 16
Teams: Panthers, Ravens

One of the more polarizing players of his generation, Smith, a middle 3rd round draft pick, secured three contract extensions from the Panthers before finishing off his career in Baltimore.

EDGE Terrell Suggs

Career Earnings: $108.2M
NFL Seasons: 17
Teams: Ravens, Cardinals, Chiefs

The 7-time Pro Bowl, 2-time Defensive Player of the year, 2-time Super Bowl champion compiled 139 sacks in 244 games, while his $108M+ earned still ranks 16th among edge defenders all-time. Baltimore took their time paying the #10 overall pick out of Arizona State, franchise tagging Suggs twice before finalizing a $62.5M extension back in 2009.

RB Fred Taylor

Career Earnings: $40.9M
NFL Seasons: 13
Teams: Jaguars, Patriots

The #9 overall pick out of Florida gave Jacksonville 11 great seasons, including 7 in which he compiled over 1,000 yards rushing. The Jags rewarded the Pro Bowler with contract extensions of $18.4M & $19.8M through 2008, before he finished off his career with a cup of coffee in New England.

K Adam Vinatieri

Career Earnings: $51.1M
NFL Seasons: 24
Teams: Patriots, Colts

One of the most decorated kickers in league history, Vinatieri essentially had two full careers: One as a Patriot, One as a Colt. The success and longevity scored him over $51M on the field, 2nd only to  Sebastian Janikowski ($53.2M) all-time.

WR Reggie Wayne

Career Earnings: $65.3M
NFL Seasons: 14
Teams: Colts

The 6-time Pro Bowler went over 1,000 yards receiving 8 times in his illustrious career, all with the Colts (he spent an offseason in New England but retired before Week 1). Indy locked in the #30 overall pick out of Miami to extensions of $39.5M & $17.5M over a 14-year span.

S Darren Woodson

Career Earnings: $28.2M
NFL Seasons: 12
Teams: Cowboys

A second round pick out of Arizona State, Woodson was a 3-time All-Pro and a 3-time Super Bowl champion for the Cowboys, securing 23 interceptions and a team-high 1,350 stops in 178 games for Dallas. He locked in extensions of $18M & $20M but a disc/back injury derailed his 2004 season and ultimately led to his retirement.

OL Marshal Yanda

Career Earnings: $70.2M
NFL Seasons: 13
Teams: Ravens

A 3rd round pick out of Iowa, Yanda’s $70M+ earned on the field still ranks 8th among guards all-time. The 2-time All-Pro secured contract extensions of $32M, $31.9M, & $10M over his 13 seasons in Baltimore.

After nearly two years of transaction inaction, the Los Angeles Lakers hooked up with a familiar trade partner in a deal with the Brooklyn Nets. The Lakers got some frontcourt depth, while the Nets gained even more financial flexibility for the summer of 2025.

Here are the particulars:

Los Angeles Lakers acquire: Dorian Finney-Smith, Shake Milton

Brooklyn Nets acquire: D’Angelo Russell, Maxwell Lewis, three Lakers second-round picks in 2027 (if Lakers first-round pick falls 5-30), 2030 and 2031

Let’s dive in!

Los Angeles Lakers

Incoming salary: $17.8 million in 2024-25

• Dorian Finney-Smith (PF/SF, two years, $30.3 million), Shake Milton (PG, three years, $9.2 million (final two seasons non-guaranteed))

Outgoing salary: $20.6 million in 2024-25

• D’Angelo Russell (PG/SG, one year, $18.7 million), Maxwell Lewis (SF, three years, $6.5 million (final two seasons partially and non-guaranteed))

With Jarred Vanderbilt’s and Christian Wood’s returns to play continuing to be uncertain, along with LeBron James managing a foot issue, the Los Angeles Lakers needed frontcourt depth. They got it in the form of Dorian Finney-Smith.

Finney-Smith is no longer the three/four wing stopper he once was, but he’s still an upgrade over the Lakers current bigger perimeter defenders. Finney-Smith has transitioned into being more of a four/small-ball five. And that has even more value for Los Angeles, who doesn’t have much behind Anthony Davis at the moment.

The Lakers will also benefit from Finney-Smith’s shooting. Normally a good shooter from the behind the arc, the veteran forward has been outstanding this season. Finney-Smith is at a career-best 43.5% on three-pointers this season. That’s a boon for JJ Redick, whose offense can often go lacking from the outside.

Giving up Russell leaves Los Angeles a bit thin in the backcourt. However, the veteran guard had seen his role reduced in recent weeks after being moved to the bench. Shake Milton will slot into a three-guard rotation with Austin Reaves and Gabe Vincent. Dalton Knecht will also likely figure more into the backcourt rotation, as frontcourt minutes will be harder to come by with Finney-Smith in the fold.

After an uptick in playing time recently, Milton has shown he can still be a rotation guard. He’s more of a scoring threat than a playmaker, but the Lakers have plenty of passing in the units where Milton may play. They should be able to find a use for his scoring and shooting ability.

Financially, this move is also a win for the Lakers. They go from just $30,001 under the second apron to about $3.5 million under the second apron. That flexibility is huge for Rob Pelinka, as he could still look to make more moves down the line.

Long-term, the Lakers potentially take on $15.4 million on next season’s books, assuming Finney-Smith picks up his player option. It’s also possible that the veteran forward could opt out and re-sign with the Lakers for less money next season, but tacking on a couple of additional seasons.

In terms of draft picks, the Lakers had five available second-rounders to trade and gave up three of them in this deal. They still have their own second-round pick, as well as the Clippers second-round in 2025 to offer in a deal. (Note on the 2027 second-round pick the Lakers are sending the Nets: That pick will only convey if the Lakers send their first-round pick to the Utah Jazz that season. That pick is top-four protected.)

This may not have been the star trade that many Los Angeles Lakers fans were hoping for. But this is a smart move by Rob Pelinka. Dorian Finney-Smith will help the Lakers a lot in their injury-depleted frontcourt. And freeing up additional flexibility for other potential moves can’t go overlooked either.

Brooklyn Nets

Incoming salary: $20.6 million in 2024-25

• D’Angelo Russell (PG/SG, one year, $18.7 million), Maxwell Lewis (SF, three years, $6.5 million (final two seasons partially and non-guaranteed))

Outgoing salary: $17.8 million in 2024-25

• Dorian Finney-Smith (PF/SF, two years, $30.3 million), Shake Milton (PG, three years, $9.2 million (final two seasons non-guaranteed))

The Brooklyn Nets are continuing to reshape their roster on the fly this season. A trade of Dorian Finney-Smith always seemed likely, especially so after Dennis Schroder was dealt earlier this month. The Nets are now rebalanced a bit, as they figure out what they want the rest of this season to be.

After trading Schroder, Brooklyn was extremely thin in the backcourt, especially at point guard. D’Angelo Russell now returns to the Nets, where he had the best years of his NBA career so far.

Expect Russell to step into the starting lineup, as he’ll share the ballhandling duties with Ben Simmons. The duo once formed a very effective partnership at Montverde Academy in high school and now reunite in the NBA. Russell’s ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates will help a Nets offense that floundered after Schroder was traded.

Beyond that, expect Sean Marks to see if the opportunity to move Russell in a subsequent deal comes up. Russell is on an expiring contract, and he doesn’t have a real place on a rebuilding team. If no deal comes, look for Russell to play out the season with the Nets, as he attempts to rebuild his value.

A buyout for Russell is possible, but doesn’t seem overly likely. Because his $18.7 million salary is larger than the Non-Taxpayer MLE, Russell would be ineligible to sign with a team that is over the apron following a buyout. That eliminates teams like the Phoenix Suns, Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat and Denver Nuggets from being spots for Russell after a buyout.

Maxwell Lewis is the kind of flyer that has paid off for Marks in the past. Lewis came into the 2023 NBA Draft as a potential wing shooter, with some defensive upside. He’s barely played in the NBA over two seasons, but has logged a decent amount of G League time. Last season, Lewis showed some 3&D potential with the South Bay Lakers. This year, his shooting has dropped off, but Lewis has shown a bit more on-ball playmaking ability. The Nets can toss him some minutes the rest of this season and see what they have, before making a decision on his contract for next season.

Financially, this move frees up even more potential cap space for the Nets in the summer of 2025. Brooklyn was already at a league-high $40.7 million in projected space. Now, Sean Marks has about $54.7 million to use this summer. That’s enough for a max signing, should the Nets want to move in that direction. Most importantly? It’s enough space to go in almost any direction for Brooklyn.

Finally, Marks added another three picks to his stash. The Nets now have 15 first-round picks and 16 second-round picks over the next seven drafts. That’s huge for Brooklyn, as that kind of capital will put them in the mix for just about any player who become available via trade.

The Brooklyn Nets aren’t done yet, at least it doesn’t feel like it. Sean Marks probably has another deal or two or in him before we get to the trade deadline. He’s got the ability to take this team in a lot of directions, as he sets up for what looks like a very important summer in Brooklyn.