Analyzing NFL quarterback contracts for players who changed teams in 2025

June 19, 2025

This offseason has seen quite a few quarterback contracts come through, maybe more than many anticipated. While we expected San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy to secure a deal, the new agreements for MVPs Josh Allen and Matthew Stafford weren’t really on anyone’s radar.

Interestingly, the Seattle Seahawks and the Pittsburgh Steelers have shaken things up by not holding onto any of their three starting quarterbacks for 2024. Meanwhile, the New York Jets made headlines by releasing Aaron Rodgers. Additionally, he managed to sign a contract that places him among the top 20 in terms of contract value. It’s quite fascinating how the market has shifted since February, isn’t it?

Let’s take a look at some of the most significant contracts signed by quarterbacks who switched teams this offseason and see how they stack up.

Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders

Contract Duration: 2 years, $75 million
2025 Cash: $40 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $58.5 million

Smith was traded to the Raiders, who decided to invest in a new quarterback. As a result, he’s now the highest-paid player in this year’s market, surpassing Baker Mayfield and the up-and-coming talent right behind Matthew Stafford.

The Raiders can technically part ways with him after the upcoming season, but Smith could net $66.5 million before they make any decisions. He’ll be entering his 37-year-old season in 2027—kind of puts him and the head coach on a ticking clock. If he plays in 2027, he’s set to make $39.5 million.

Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks

Contract Duration: 3 years, $100 million
2025 Cash: $37.5 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $37.5 million

Darnold emerged as the top free agent and landed a major deal. While he’s in that middle tier of QB contracts—making under $40 million per year but over $15 million—this deal is quite notable.

The contract breaks down to $37.5 million this year, with $27.5 million in 2026 and $35.5 million in 2027.

Even with a rocky history, Darnold is only 28, so if he can keep his starting position, this deal could lead to more financial opportunities.

Justin Fields, New York Jets

Contract Duration: 2 years, $40 million
2025 Cash: $20 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $30 million

This contract might be the most surprising from a financial perspective. Fields secured a deal worth more than any other free agent this offseason, which is a fantastic outcome for someone who’s already switched teams twice.

If he plays well, the Jets are likely to pay him an additional $10 million in 2026. If not, they can easily drop him, which would end up costing them around $28.5 million. It’s an interesting setup for everyone involved.

Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts

Contract Duration: 1 year, $14 million
2025 Cash: $14 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $13.15 million

The Colts have Anthony Richardson as their starter, but there’s been some inconsistency and injury issues. So, Jones is in the running for that starting role with plenty of cap space for 2026.

Having previously racked up $82 million with the Giants over the last two years, this new deal takes him up to $122 million overall. That’s quite a career trajectory.

Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers

Contract Duration: 1 year, $13.65 million
2025 Cash: $13.65 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $10 million

This deal signed with the Steelers essentially guarantees Rodgers’ salary right from week one. It’s curious, though, that he’s behind Jones even though he’s a clear starter for Pittsburgh.

The Steelers initially brought in Fields and Wilson before settling on Rodgers—it’ll be interesting to see how their long-term plans unfold and which quarterback has a better season.

Russell Wilson, New York Giants

Contract Duration: 1 year, $10.5 million
2025 Cash: $10.5 million
Fully Guaranteed Money: $10.5 million

The Giants have named Wilson their starter, which makes it somewhat curious that he’s making less than former Giants QB Daniel Jones.

New York has also brought in Jameis Winston as a backup this offseason, but Wilson seems to only be here for a year before potentially making way for rookie Jackson Dart. For general managers and coaches eyeing the future, changes may come sooner than anticipated.