Winners and losers of Jalen Hurts’ record contract include Eagles QB’s 2020 draft mates
the Philadelphia Eagles’ Pro Bowl quarterback agreed to a five-year contract extension worth $255 million, its $51 million average the highest in league history – slightly more than Aaron Rodgers’ deal (currently $50.3 million per season). Hurts’ $179.3 million in guarantees are also among the most ever.
As with any groundbreaking pact, there will be significant ramifications, both immediate and over the long run. A look at the potential winners and losers from Hurts’ massive payday:
WINNERS
Jalen Hurts: Duh, right? But give the 2022 league MVP runner-up – and let’s not forget, Hurts was the best player on the field in the Super Bowl (304 yards, TD passing; 70 yards, 3 TDs rushing) – copious credit for crafting his market with impeccable timing. There was some question entering last season as to whether he was the Eagles’ long-term answer under center. Hurts answered them all beyond a shadow of a doubt and, now, the 2020 second-round pick becomes the NFL’s best compensated player after a mere three seasons.
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Patrick Mahomes: No indication he’s itching to rework his own historic arrangement, one that could be worth a half-billion dollars if the Kansas City Chiefs star played out the contract’s 10-year duration. Don’t expect that to happen as the cap hits climb – including one scheduled for more than $62 million in 2027. Eventually, Mahomes, the guy who beat out Hurts for league and Super Bowl MVP last season, will renegotiate. And, if he plays his cards right, deals like Hurts’ will only help push his average annual earnings into the stratosphere. Don’t rule out $75 million a year by the time Mahomes re-ups.
LOSERS
NFC East: The Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott is scheduled to have a nearly $60 million cap hit in 2024, so Jerry Jones and Co. may have to pay their quarterback anew soon. The Washington Commanders are hoping second-year QB Sam Howell is their guy. But if he’s not – and this franchise has mismanaged the position in spectacular fashion in recent years – the price just went up for the next owners to pursue an established veteran to lead what otherwise appears to be a playoff-caliber roster. And the New York Giants just gave Daniel Jones a four-year, $160 million windfall … but they could have a different kind of issue if he turns out to be a one-year wonder.
2019 MVP Lamar Jackson, who serves as his own agent, back into the fold – especially if Jackson, widely believed to be seeking a (fully guaranteed) bankroll in excess of Watson’s, decides it’s now time to move the goalposts.
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Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis on Twitter @ByNateDavis.