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Will Anderson Jr. Now Makes More Money Than All But 10 NFL Quarterbacks
© Denny Medley-Imagn Images.

Will Anderson Jr. Now Makes More Money Than All But 10 NFL Quarterbacks

Originally posted on The Spun  |  By Chris Rosvoglou  |  Last updated Apr 17, 2026 1:52 PM ET
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The Houston Texans were willing to make history to ensure Will Anderson Jr. will be on their roster for the foreseeable future.

On Friday, the Texans signed Anderson to a three-year extension worth $150 million. This deal, which includes $134 million guaranteed, makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. That record was previously held by Green Bay Packers pass rusher Micah Parsons.

It's no surprise that Anderson received this massive extension from the Texans. The former No. 3 overall pick has racked up 136 tackles, 64 QB hits, 30 sacks and four forced fumbles since he went pro in 2023.

With that being said, Anderson's new contract ($50 million per year) actually puts him above Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes ($45 million per year) when it comes to their average annual salaries.

Anderson will also earn more than Matthew Stafford, Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, Jayden Daniels, Caleb Williams and a plethora of other notable quarterbacks.


Dec 7, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass as Houston Texans defensive end Will Anderson Jr. (51) rushes during the second quarter at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amy Kontras-Imagn Images© Amy Kontras-Imagn Images.

Will Anderson Jr. is in elite company.

Although it may sound crazy, only 10 players in the NFL have higher salaries than Anderson. What's not shocking is that all of them are quarterbacks.

Here are the quarterbacks who just beat Anderson in the AAV battle:

  • Dak Prescott ($60 million per year)
  • Trevor Lawrence ($55 million per year)
  • Jordan Love ($55 million per year)
  • Josh Allen ($55 million per year)
  • Joe Burrow ($55 million per year)
  • Brock Purdy ($53 million per year)
  • Jared Goff ($53 million per year)
  • Justin Herbert ($52.5 million per year)
  • Lamar Jackson ($52 million per year)
  • Jalen Hurts ($51 million per year)

There's no question Anderson has earned this very hefty payday. Now, he'll have to prove that he was worth this investment.

We have no doubt Anderson will continue to shine for Houston as long as he's healthy.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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