NFL's Rising Stars: Who's Next for a Record Deal?

The NFL consistently witnesses players securing record-breaking contracts. Recently, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba became the highest-paid receiver with an average annual value of $42.15 million. But who will be next to top the charts at their position?

Offensive Players Primed for Extensions

Quarterback: Lamar Jackson

The Baltimore Ravens restructured Lamar Jackson’s contract to create cap space, but a historic extension remains likely for the 29-year-old quarterback before the 2026 season. Jackson has won two league MVP awards and earned three first-team All-Pro selections since his last deal in 2023.

Running Back: Bijan Robinson

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson led the NFL with 2,298 scrimmage yards in the last season, earning first-team All-Pro honors. An extension for the 2023 No. 8 overall pick is a high priority for the Falcons.

Wide Receiver: Puka Nacua

Despite recent off-field issues, Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua is projected to surpass Jaxon Smith-Njigba as the NFL’s highest-paid wideout. In 2025, Nacua led the league in receptions, receiving first downs, and receiving yards per game.

Tight End: Kyle Pitts

After receiving a franchise tag in February, Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts is well-positioned to exceed Kittle's current contract. Pitts caught a career-high 88 passes for 928 yards and five touchdowns last season, earning second-team All-Pro honors.

Offensive Tackle: Charles Wright

The Carolina Panthers’ Charles Wright, though a right tackle, has the potential to surpass Tunsil’s deal with the league’s rising salary cap. The 24-year-old has started all 49 games of his career and earned second-team All-Pro honors last season.

Guard: Roman Skoronski

The New York Jets’ Roman Skoronski has quickly become one of the best young guards in the NFL. The 24-year-old standout has started 48 career games at left guard.

Center: Jackson Wilson

The New England Patriots’ Jackson Wilson is a candidate to reset the center market in two years. He started 13 games for the Patriots last season and is expected to transition to center.

Defensive Players Poised for Major Contracts

Edge Rusher: Dallas Turner

Already one of the NFL’s best defensive players, Dallas Turner registered 12 sacks and 85 pressures last season, earning first-team All-Pro honors. The former No. 3 overall pick has 30 sacks in three seasons.

Defensive Tackle: Jalen Carter

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter has become one of football’s most disruptive players in just three seasons. He was a second-team All-Pro honoree in 2024 and has made the Pro Bowl in back-to-back seasons.

Linebacker: Jeremiah Owusu-Coramoah

Cleveland Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Coramoah has shown significant production growth in each of his three seasons. In 2025, he recorded 176 tackles, five sacks, and three forced fumbles, earning first-team All-Pro honors.

Cornerback: Devon Witherspoon

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Devon Witherspoon is slated to become the league’s highest-paid player at his position. Witherspoon has been named to the Pro Bowl three straight times to begin his career.

Safety: Xavier McKinney

Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney is in line for a substantial deal in 2027. He has 13 interceptions over the past three seasons and has made an All-Pro team in back-to-back years.