Top 10 Highest Paid NFL Kickers of All Time

The NFL is renowned not only for its high-octane games but also for its players who push the boundaries of athleticism and skill. Among these athletes are kickers, who often play pivotal roles in deciding the outcomes of games. While they might not always be the center of attention, their contributions are crucial, and some have been handsomely rewarded for their efforts. Here, we delve into the careers and earnings of the top 10 Highest Paid NFL Kickers of all time.

1. Justin Tucker

Career Earnings: $50 million+

Often hailed as the most accurate kicker in NFL history, Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens tops the list. Since entering the league in 2012, Tucker has broken multiple records and consistently delivered under pressure. His lucrative contracts reflect his value, making him the highest-paid kicker in the NFL.

Highlights:

Highest field goal accuracy in NFL history.
Five-time Pro Bowler.
Super Bowl XLVII Champion.

2. Sebastian Janikowski

Career Earnings: $48 million+

Known for his powerful leg and long-range kicking, Sebastian Janikowski enjoyed a storied career primarily with the Oakland Raiders. Drafted in the first round in 2000, “Seabass” became one of the most dependable and well-compensated kickers in the league.

Highlights:

Longest tenured player in Raiders history.
Most field goals of 50+ yards (58).
Pro Bowler in 2011.

3. Adam Vinatieri

Career Earnings: $47 million+

A name synonymous with clutch performances, Adam Vinatieri’s storied career spans over two decades. Known for his game-winning kicks in Super Bowls, Vinatieri’s reliability earned him substantial paychecks from both the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts.

Highlights:

Four-time Super Bowl Champion.
Three-time Pro Bowler.
NFL’s all-time leading scorer.

4. Stephen Gostkowski

Career Earnings: $45 million+

Successor to Vinatieri at the Patriots, Stephen Gostkowski upheld the legacy with remarkable consistency. His tenure with New England and later the Tennessee Titans has made him one of the highest-earning kickers.

Highlights:

Three-time Super Bowl Champion.
Four-time Pro Bowler.
Led the NFL in points scored in five different seasons.

5. Robbie Gould

Career Earnings: $44 million+

Robbie Gould’s journey from undrafted free agent to one of the highest-paid kickers is inspiring. His stints with the Chicago Bears, New York Giants, and San Francisco 49ers have been marked by consistent excellence.

Highlights:

Second-most accurate kicker in NFL history.
Pro Bowler in 2006.
Holds Bears’ franchise records for points and field goals made.

6. Mason Crosby

Career Earnings: $43 million+

A steady fixture in the Green Bay Packers’ special teams unit, Mason Crosby’s strong leg and dependable performance have earned him lucrative contracts and a spot among the highest-paid kickers.

Highlights:

Super Bowl XLV Champion.
Most points scored in Packers history.
Two-time NFC Champion.

7. Matt Prater

Career Earnings: $42 million+

Known for his record-breaking 64-yard field goal, Matt Prater has made a name for himself with the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions. His long-range capabilities have contributed to his hefty paychecks.

Highlights:

Record for longest field goal in NFL history (64 yards).
Super Bowl 50 Champion.
Pro Bowler in 2016.

8. Dan Bailey

Career Earnings: $41 million+

Dan Bailey gained fame with the Dallas Cowboys and continues to deliver with the Minnesota Vikings. His accuracy and reliability make him one of the highest-paid kickers in NFL history.

Highlights:

Most accurate kicker in Cowboys history.
Pro Bowler in 2015.
Holds multiple franchise records.

9. Jason Hanson

Career Earnings: $40 million+

Spending his entire career with the Detroit Lions, Jason Hanson’s loyalty and consistency were rewarded with significant earnings. He remains one of the longest-serving and highest-paid kickers in NFL history.

Highlights:

Second-longest career in NFL history (21 seasons).
Two-time Pro Bowler.
Most field goals of 40+ yards in NFL history.

10. Josh Brown

Career Earnings: $39 million+

Josh Brown enjoyed a lengthy career with multiple teams, including the Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams, and New York Giants. His consistent performance earned him a spot among the highest-paid kickers.

Highlights:

Pro Bowler in 2015.
NFC Special Teams Player of the Month multiple times.
Over 300 career field goals.

Conclusion

Kickers in the NFL may not always steal the spotlight, but their importance cannot be understated. The top 10 highest-paid kickers of all time exemplify how skill, accuracy, and reliability can be handsomely rewarded in a league that thrives on performance. For aspiring athletes and fans alike, these kickers serve as a testament to the impact that precision and dedication can have on a career.

Curious about the latest trends and updates in the NFL? Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and stories from the world of sports.