Only a handful of players dominate the endorsement landscape in the NFL, and their contracts show not just their athletic ability but how marketable and appealing they are as brands. In 2024, top NFL players have signed expensive deals that showcase how much power they yield both on and off the field. This list identifies the most lucrative endorsement deals inked by NFL athletes.
1. Patrick Mahomes – The King of Endorsements with a $25 Million Touchdown Dance
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Quarterback Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs is in the headlines, not just for winning Super Bowls, but also for how much money he earns from endorsements.
With a staggering income of $25 million every year, coming in from brand deals, Mahomes is basically MVP when it comes to marketing deals. Teaming up with an all-star lineup, including: Adidas, Coors Light, State Farm, Subway, Hugo Boss, T-Mobile, Walmart, Hy-Vee, Hyperice, Nestle, Walt Disney, Whoop, Procter & Gamble, CommunityAmerica Credit Union, DraftKings, Epic Games, AirShare. And if that is not enough, Mahomes even has stakes in the Kansas City Royals, Sporting KC, Kansas City Current, and Alpine F1. Evidently, this quarterback's game is not limited to the gridiron!
2. Dak Prescott-$15 Million and Counting
But Dallas Cowboys QB Dak Prescott is making one heck of a play off the field with endorsements, raking in a cool $15 million annually. Dak's endorsements are about as diverse as his skill set: Nike's Jordan Brand, Bud Light, AT&T, Beats, DirectTV, Campbell's, Blockchain.com, Oikos, Pepsi, New Era, Citi Bank, Frito-Lay, Seven & I Holdings, and Sleep Number. His leading on the field translates to top-tier marketing muscle off of it.
3. Russell Wilson – $13 Million and the Charm Offensive
Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson pockets $13 million in endorsement money, the proof that his charm does not lie on the football pitch. His endorsement portfolio includes: Nike, Microsoft, Bose, Alaska Airlines, Mercedes-Benz, Panini Sports Cards, Spin Maste, Wheels Up, Wilson Sporting Goods. The charisma from Wilson and his charity work add to his appeal to these major brands.
4. Aaron Rodgers – $11 Million and Still a Market Magnet
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Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets, while towards the tail end of his Hall-of-Fame career still brings in a robust $11 million from endorsements. His deals include: State Farm, Adidas, IZOD, Fanatics, Panini Sports Cards, TaylorMade, Zenith. Rodgers' sustained excellence on the field keeps him near the top of this list.
5. Travis Kelce – $5 Million and Counting
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Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce gets paid $5 million annually from endorsement deals. Fun and charismatic, with enviable social media presence, Kelce's endorsement stable includes: Nike, Pfizer, State Farm. Kelce's off-field charm makes him a favorite among brands looking to reach a younger demographic.
6. Joe Burrow – $4 Million and Rising
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow earns $4 million per year from endorsement deals. His sponsors are BodyArmor, Bose & Guinness. On-field excellence from Burrow, paired with a more relatable personality, makes him one very bankable endorser.
7. Josh Allen - $4 Million and on the Rise
Buffalo Bills QB Josh Allen takes in another $4 million through endorsement deals. His sponsors include Nike, Microsoft, Hyundai, FedEx, and Pepsi. Allen's star continues to rise, attracting many premium brands.
8. Kyler Murray - $3.5 Million and Rising
Rounding out the list is Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, with $3.5 million in endorsements. His partners are BodyArmor, Nike, and FaZe Clan. With Murray's dynamic play and forays into esports, he perhaps is the most interesting figure when it comes to endorsements.
NFL endorsement deals are about more than just the money; they are strategic partnerships that build off the imagery of the athletes, further implanting themselves in the pop culture. With the league's continued growth, these endorsement opportunities will also grow, showing the dynamic intersection of sports and business. Top earners epitomize how personal brand development and performance align to bring in substantial financial rewards.