Who are the highest-paid defensive linemen in the NFL for the 2025 season? The position has some of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the league with 20 defensive linemen (excluding edge rushers) currently set to make at least $15 million per season in average annual salary, led by a defensive lineman who is earning an average of $31.75 million per season. There are 14 NFL defensive linemen making at least $20 million a season entering 2025 NFL free agency. Here's a look at the top 10 defensive linemen in the league, ranked by average annual salary, per
overthecap.com , a site that tracks NFL player contracts (through Feb. 28, 2025).
Who is the highest-paid defensive lineman in the NFL?
The
Kansas City Chiefs ' Chris Jones is currently the highest-paid defensive lineman in the NFL, with an average annual salary of $31.75 million. His current contract has a total value of $158.75 million, with a total guaranteed amount of $95 million.
Which NFL defensive linemen will make the most in 2025?
Jones has company on the list of the top-paid defensive linemen in the NFL. The
Las Vegas Raiders ' Christian Wilkins is second, at $27.5 million per season, with the
Baltimore Ravens ' Nnamdi Madubuike third, at $24.5 million. Alim McNiell of the
Detroit Lions is fourth, with an average annual salary of $24.25 million, with Derrick Brown of the
Carolina Panthers fifth, at $24 million, tied with the
New York Jets ' Quinnen Williams among the highest-paid NFL D-linemen in the league.
NFL's highest-paid defensive linemen in 2025 (average salary per year):
Reach Jeremy Cluff at . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff. Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today .
