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Joe Burrow becomes highest-paid player in NFL history

On3 imageby:Shea Dixon•09/07/23•

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(Andy Lyons via Getty Images)

Former LSU quarterback Joe Burrow has become the highest-paid player in the history of the NFL.

On Thursday evening, news broke of a new contract that will pay Burrow $275 million after terms to a contract extension were agreed to, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports.

“Joe Burrow has reached agreement with the Bengals on an 5-year, $275 million extension that includes $219.01 million guaranteed and makes him the highest-paid player in NFL history,” Schefter reported.

Burrow’s path to the highest-paid player in the NFL

With the flawless 2019 season at LSU and the deep playoff runs in ’21 and ’22, Joe Burrow feels like a fixture of January football. Yet, the Cincy star hasn’t even played 50 career games as a pro.

In just 2.5 full seasons of play and 43 total games, Burrow made the Super Bowl, made two AFC titles, won the AFC North back-to-back seasons. Plus, Joey B is also the only active QB to defeat the impenetrable Patrick Mahomes in the playoffs — and he’s 3-1 against the guy in four total contests so far.

Of course, back in college, Burrow completed one of the single greatest individual college football seasons ever, leading LSU to a 15-0 season and national title victory while also winning the Heisman. It literally does not get better than that — at least in college. At the pro level, Joey B is still on the hunt for an MVP and Super Bowl win.

With him back in the fold and those injury concerns gone, 2023-24 might finally be the Bengals year. PFF is certainly predicting such a fate as they pegged Cincinnati as the most likely team to win the Super Bowl this season, giving them a 14% chance to do so.

Week 1 opener no longer in doubt for the Bengals star

After suffering a strained calf during the opening week of training camp in July, Burrow is now on track to play in Cincinnati’s opener this weekend.

“I’m ready to go. I’m expecting to play,” Burrow said.

Earlier this week, Burrow said contract negotiations – which are now in the rearview mirror – were not on the forefront of his mind.

“That’s the last thing I’m thinking about,” Joe Burrow told reporters. “I’m worried about beating the Browns right now. I mean it comes when it comes. I’m not worried about it or anything.”

“That’s gonna come. I’m going to keep playing well. I feel great about the organization and everybody in the locker room and in the coaching staff. And so, you know, that’s the icing on the cake to me. I’m just excited to be out here.”

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