As of 2023, the highest-paid Cleveland Browns player is defensive end Myles Garrett, who signed a five-year, $125 million contract extension in July 2021. This massive deal makes Garrett the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, with an average annual salary of $25 million.
Garrett, who was the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, has been a dominant force on the Browns’ defensive line since he entered the league. In his first four seasons, he has racked up 42.5 sacks, including 12 in 2020, earning Pro Bowl honours in each of the last three years.
While Garrett is the highest-paid player on the Browns, he is not necessarily the richest. That title likely belongs to quarterback Baker Mayfield, who has endorsement deals with companies such as Progressive, BodyArmor, and Hulu, among others. According to Forbes, Mayfield made $10 million in endorsements in 2020, which was the fourth-highest total among NFL players.
Mayfield, who was the first overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has been the Browns’ starting quarterback since midway through his rookie season. He led the team to its first playoff appearance in 18 years in 2020 and is seen as a key piece of the Browns’ future success.
Other notable high earners on the Browns’ roster include wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who is set to make $15.75 million in 2023, and offensive tackle Jack Conklin, who will earn $13.5 million.
However, it is worth noting that the NFL’s salary cap can fluctuate from year to year, so these figures are subject to change.
In summary, Myles Garrett is the highest-paid player on the Cleveland Browns in 2023, thanks to his lucrative contract extension.
However, Baker Mayfield likely holds the title of the team’s richest player, thanks to his numerous endorsement deals. While the Browns have several high earners on their roster, they will need all of them to perform at a high level in order to achieve their goals of contending for a Super Bowl.
