The latest ranking of the world’s highest-paid athletes includes more than 30 NFL players, showcasing the financial power of professional football, particularly with the addition of endorsement earnings. The ranking takes into account both salaries and endorsements, placing athletes with broader international appeal higher on the list.
NFL Players Making the List
Several NFL players have made their mark on Forbes’ list, with their significant earnings primarily stemming from a combination of high salaries and lucrative endorsement deals. Here are some of the top-earning NFL stars:
- Peyton Manning (#10 on Forbes List): Manning earned $42.4 million in total, with $32.4 million from his salary and $10 million from endorsements. His extensive media presence and commercial deals contributed to his high ranking.
- Haloti Ngata (#12 on Forbes List): Ngata secured $37.3 million in total earnings, including $37.1 million from salary and $200,000 from endorsements. His successful career and large marketability helped him earn a spot on the list.
- Larry Fitzgerald (#13 on Forbes List): Fitzgerald earned $36.8 million in total, with $35.3 million coming from his salary and $1.5 million from endorsements. Known for his on-field performance and off-field brand appeal, Fitzgerald’s earnings are impressive.
- Ndamukong Suh (#14 on Forbes List): Suh’s total earnings reached $36 million, with $35.5 million from his salary and $500,000 from endorsements. Suh’s reputation as one of the NFL’s most dominant players has made him a sought-after figure for sponsorships.
- Charles Johnson (#15 on Forbes List): Johnson made $34.4 million, earning $34.3 million from salary and $100,000 from endorsements, securing a prominent spot among the highest-paid athletes.
- Mario Williams (#16 on Forbes List): Williams earned a total of $33.2 million, which includes $32.9 million from salary and $250,000 from endorsement deals.
Other Notable NFL Players
Many other NFL players earned impressive amounts, solidifying their financial success both on and off the field:
- Darrelle Revis (#22 on Forbes List): $28.3 million
- Tom Brady (#28 on Forbes List): $27.1 million
- Eli Manning (#30 on Forbes List): $26.6 million
- Ben Roethlisberger (#43 on Forbes List): $23.3 million
These figures reflect how NFL athletes continue to thrive financially, with endorsements playing a crucial role in boosting their total earnings and cementing their status as global icons.
