NFL Offseason Extravaganza: Top Extension Candidates

The NFL offseason is heating up, and with the salary cap on the rise, several star players are poised to cash in with hefty extensions. Here’s a closer look at some of the top candidates:

Quarterbacks

Trey Lance, San Francisco 49ers

Despite a disappointing season, the 49ers remain committed to Lance, who they believe is their franchise quarterback. A massive extension is on the horizon, potentially putting him on par with Dak Prescott as the NFL’s highest-paid player at $60 million per year.

Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks

Smith’s resurgence has earned him another extension, likely in the mid-tier range. With the Buccaneers’ Baker Mayfield serving as a potential yardstick, a three-year, $100 million deal seems plausible.

Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills

Allen’s MVP campaign warrants a significant pay bump, but the exact structure remains unclear with four years left on his current contract.

Running Backs

Devin Singletary, Buffalo Bills

Singletary is seeking a hefty raise after his second consecutive Pro Bowl season. However, his $15 million per year target may be a stretch, trailing only Christian McCaffrey among running backs.

Wide Receivers

Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals

Higgins is a top potential free agent if not extended or franchise tagged. He’s expected to command a lucrative deal, potentially exceeding $35 million per year, which would shatter the mark set by former LSU teammate Justin Jefferson.

Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals

Chase is poised for a record-breaking extension after a dominant season. Guaranteed money could be a sticking point, as the Bengals have been hesitant to commit to long-term contracts.

Jerry Jeudy, Denver Broncos

Jeudy seeks a substantial pay increase after a breakout season. An extension could reduce his 2025 cap hit and ensure he remains the primary target for Bo Nix.

Garrett Wilson, New York Jets

Despite his ambivalence about staying with the Jets, an extension could be mutually beneficial. Wilson has potential as a foundational piece, and the Jets may be wise to secure him before he enters free agency.

Tight Ends

Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders

A trusted leader and Jayden Daniels’ top weapon, McLaurin is a prime extension candidate. Addressing the lack of guaranteed money on his current deal is a priority.

Dalton Schultz, Dallas Cowboys

With the departure of Blake Jarwin, Schultz has emerged as a key target for the Cowboys. A long-term extension seems likely, especially with the rising value of tight ends.

Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys

Elliott’s decline in production and high salary make an extension unlikely. However, a restructuring to reduce his cap hit could be possible.

Defensive Linemen

Harold Landry, Tennessee Titans

Landry’s sack production has plateaued, but the Titans value his athleticism and versatility. A modest extension in the $15-20 million per year range is possible.

Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati Bengals

The NFL’s reigning sack king is pushing for a lucrative deal, but his age and contract demands could make a trade more likely.

Ed Oliver, Buffalo Bills

Oliver has yet to reach the elite tier of pass rushers, but his talent and potential warrant a substantial extension.

Linebackers

Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys

Parsons is expected to become the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player, surpassing Nick Bosa. Talks are ongoing, but the Cowboys have a history of protracted negotiations.

T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers

Despite his age and recent decline, the Steelers are committed to Watt and confident in his ability to bounce back. An extension in the $30 million per year range is possible.

Patrick Surtain, Denver Broncos

Surtain has emerged as one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks, challenging for the top pay at the position.

Defensive Backs

Hamilton, Baltimore Ravens

Hamilton’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a priority extension candidate. He’s likely to become the highest-paid safety in the NFL.

Jeff Okudah, Detroit Lions

Despite a disappointing 2022 season, the Lions remain high on Okudah’s potential. A prove-it deal could be in the works, with a major payday possible if he rebounds.

Denzel Ward, Cleveland Browns

Ward is seeking an extension commensurate with his All-Pro status. The Browns are likely to oblige, considering the importance of his playmaking ability.