Comparing Terry McLaurin’s contract to Ja’Marr Chase, DK Metcalf

It pays to be a wide receiver.

The NFL offseason has been filled with big extensions for some big names, giving a new-look to the highest-paid list of receivers heading into the 2025 regular season.

DK Metcalf got things started following his trade to the Pittsburgh Steelers in March, inking a four-year, $132 million extension with the team. The deal made Metcalf the third highest-paid receiver in the league, but he was quickly moved down the list a week later as Ja’Marr Chase entered the discussion.

The Cincinnati Bengals’ star agreed to a four-year, $161 million deal that not only put him atop the list of receivers, but made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.

Chase remains atop the list, but he’s dragging the rest of the market up with him.

Garrett Wilson then joined the fray as the New York Jets awarded him with a four-year, $130 million deal.

On Monday, it was Terry McLaurin’s turn as the longtime Washington Commanders’ star ended his hold-in, agreeing to a three-year, $96 million extension.

The receiver market is a lot like a hot stock at the moment – only trending up. Here is where McLaurin fits into the ever-evolving list.

Highest-paid NFL WRs

McLaurin goes from ranking No. 20 in total contract value and No. 17 in average annual value (AAV), to ranking top-10 in both categories following the extension.

Here’s are the top-10 highest-paid receivers in terms of AAV and total contract value, according to Spotrac.

AAV

1. Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals: $40.25 million
2. Justin Jefferson, Vikings: $35 million
3. CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys: $34 million
4. DK Metcalf, Steelers: $33 million
5. Garrett Wilson, Jets: $32.5 million
6. Terry McLaurin, Commanders: $32 million
7. A.J. Brown, Eagles: $32 million
8. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions: $30.0025 million
9. Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers: $30 million
10. Tyreek Hill, Dolphins: $30 million

Total contract value

1. Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals: $161 million
2. Justin Jefferson, Vikings: $140 million
3. CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys: $136 million
4. DK Metcalf, Steelers: $132 million
5. Garrett Wilson, Jets: $130 million
6. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions: $120.01 million
7. Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers: $120 million
8. Tee Higgins, Bengals: $115 million
9. D.J. Moore, Bears: $110 million
10. Terry McLaurin, Commanders: $96 million
11. A.J. Brown, Eagles: $96 million

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