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The 2026 season is shaping up to be particularly lucrative for NFL stars.
Topping the list of players expected to generate the most revenue this year is a 31-year-old quarterback making a remarkable comeback after suffering a serious knee injury in 2025.
With estimated earnings of $88.8 million, the Kansas City Chiefs player dominates the list by a wide margin. His salary and bonuses total approximately $56.8 million, while his various sponsorships and commercial deals will bring in an additional $32 million.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen comes next with earnings estimated at $73 million. Behind him, Jared Goff of the Detroit Lions is expected to earn $60 million, followed by Baker Mayfield of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with $59 million. Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts rounds out the top group with $57.5 million.
However, another name is drawing attention in this ranking: Fernando Mendoza. The young quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders is already ranked 12th, even though he has yet to make a single start in the NFL. As the first overall pick in the last draft, he is expected to earn $50 million in his first professional season, including $11 million from sponsorships.
Quarterbacks Dominate NFL Earnings
The dominance of quarterbacks is particularly striking. They occupy 15 of the top 20 spots on the list of the highest-paid NFL players in 2026.
The first player from another position appears at No. 16: Micah Parsons, outside linebacker for the Green Bay Packers, with estimated earnings of $44.8 million.
Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman Charles Cross follows with $43.3 million. Finally, Kansas City Chiefs veteran tight end Travis Kelce rounds out the group with $42 million.
These figures illustrate the financial importance of quarterbacks in the NFL, both on the field and in the world of sponsorships and commercial partnerships.
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