# NFL player salary trends and rankings

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-player-salary-trends-and-rankings
> Updated: 2026-09-01T20:22:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

In August 2026, NFL contract rankings indicated a significant rise in player salaries, particularly for elite quarterbacks. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs led the league with an average annual value of $63.1 million, followed by Dak Prescott at $60 million. During this period, running back salaries also saw growth, with Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions becoming the highest-paid running back at $22.5 million per year.

By September 2026, quarterback dominance in salary rankings remained a central trend. Mahomes’ average annual salary was noted at $64 million, while several other quarterbacks, including Joe Burrow and Josh Allen, reached the $55 million mark. While quarterbacks led most franchises, some teams focused investments elsewhere; for instance, the Houston Texans’ highest-paid player was edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., earning $50 million.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-01: NFL player salaries and team outlooks for 2026

NFL salary rankings for 2026 show Patrick Mahomes as the highest-paid player at $64 million, while the Houston Texans focus on defensive continuity and offensive line upgrades.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfl-player-salaries-and-team-outlooks-for-2026

### 2026-08-07: NFL 2026 Contract Rankings Reveal Top Earners

NFL 2026 salary rankings put Patrick Mahomes at $63.1 M, Dak Prescott at $60 M, and make Jahmyr Gibbs the highest‑paid running back at $22.5 M annually.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfls-top-salaries-2026-highest-paid-players-revealed

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Cite as: NFL player salary trends and rankings. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-player-salary-trends-and-rankings