Insane Stat About Russell Wilson's Contract Shows How Much the NFL Has Grown in 25 Years
The NFL seems to get wealthier by the year, as viewership goes up and audiences spread farther across the world. And as the league gets richer, salary caps are expanded and players reap the benefits.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson is the latest to be handed a lucrative deal. His new max contract with the Seahawks is spans four years, and is worth $140 million, with $107 million guaranteed. Not only does the contract leave Wilson as the highest earned in the league, due to make $35 million annually, but Wilson's salary is more than the league's first-ever salary cap back in 1994.
Russell Wilson's new contract marks the first time in NFL history that a player's average annual value ($35m) has exceeded the value of the league's first salary cap ($34.6m) in 1994.
— Bobby Belt (@BobbyBeltTX) May 27, 2019
That's right, Russell Wilson is now making more per year than an entire NFL roster was allowed to be paid in 1994. That was only 25 years ago!
That's some incredibly impressive financial growth for the NFL. Just 25 years ago, an entire NFL team would be comprised of salaries that equate to $34.6 million. Now, Wilson is earning that on his own, and in only one season!
Russell Wilson's new deal could set the standard for Cam Newton's next contract https://t.co/zGbiE6X5df via @thepantherswire
— CSK (@my1voice56) May 21, 2019
Russell Wilson's contract marks a new milestone in NFL history, but it is only the beginning. His contract is expected to set the stage for many other top level quarterbacks who will be signing extensions in the near future.
In reality, Wilson's contract may be a milestone now. But soon enough it will be seen as a stepping stone for current and future stars in the league. Don't be surprised if Wilson's contract is topped within the next year or two. Yes, Patrick Mahomes, we're looking directly at you/