Mid-Tier Quarterbacks Shine Despite High Salaries in NFL

Indianapolis, IN — This NFL season, several mid-tier quarterbacks are making a significant impact despite the exorbitant contracts of their top-tier peers. With teams investing heavily in elite quarterbacks, those earning between $45 million and lesser contracts have garnered attention for their on-field success.

Notably, Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts has emerged as a breakout star. After signing a one-year deal worth $14 million last offseason, Jones has led the Colts to a remarkable 7-1 record, with the team averaging 33.8 points per game. He currently ranks second in the league for expected points added per play.

Other mid-tier contracts have proven effective as well. After leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 finish in 2024, former No. 3 overall pick Sam Darnold was picked up by the Seattle Seahawks for three years at $100 million, and the team currently stands at 5-2, with Darnold ranking fourth in EPA per play.

Baker Mayfield‘s journey has been particularly remarkable. The 2018 No. 1 overall draft pick was traded by the Cleveland Browns and later signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now, in his second season with the team, Mayfield has led the Bucs to a 6-2 record and secured a three-year, $100 million extension.

The concept of mid-tier quarterback contracts isn’t new; the Tennessee Titans experienced success recently with Ryan Tannehill earning just under $30 million annually while still achieving back-to-back double-digit win totals. Likewise, the 2020 Colts and the Buccaneers both found playoff success with veteran quarterbacks being paid significantly less than elite counterparts.

However, not all mid-tier contracts have worked out. The New York Jets sit at 1-7 with Justin Fields struggling to perform during his two-year, $40 million deal. Geno Smith‘s second chance with the Las Vegas Raiders has also been disappointing, as the team currently holds a record of 2-5.

Despite the mixed results, four of the top seven teams with quarterbacks in the mid-tier salary range have favorable odds to win the Super Bowl, suggesting that elite talent isn’t the only pathway to success in the league.