One of the premier players at the position, and an ascending talent across the league, Winfield and the Buccaneers agreed to a record-setting contract that makes him not only the highest-paid player at the position but the highest-paid defensive back in league history.
Winfield Jr.’s pact is a four-year deal worth $84.1 million deal that includes $45 million fully guaranteed.
Putting Antoine Winfield Jr.’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers Contract Into Context
As Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports, Winfield Jr.’s deal includes more guaranteed money than All-Pro cornerback L’Jarius Sneed’s $44 million and cornerback Jaylon Johnsons’ $43.8 million.
In the not-so-distant past, cornerback had been viewed as a significantly more important premium position than safety, but, Winfield Jr. certainly challenges that perception.
Winfield Jr., 25, finished last season as Pro Football Focus’ No. 1 ranked safety in the NFL, while producing a career-high 122 total tackles with three interceptions and six sacks, garnering an elite 90.7 overall grade from PFF.
Still, CBS Sports analyst, and former NFL agent, Joel Corry was surprised at the value Winfield Jr. commanded on his new deal with the Buccaneers.
Winfield Jr.’s new contract ensures he’ll be a focal point — and building block — of the Buccaneers’ defense for years to come.
More must-reads: