$140 million dollar Buccaneers lineman tops NFC South as highest-paid non-QB

The Buccaneers' dominant offensive lineman stands atop the NFC South highest earners.

A general view of Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmets against the Kansas City Chiefs. | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Last offseason, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made the decision to award left tackle Tristan Wirfs a massive $140 million contract extension, establishing himself as one of the highest paid non-quarterbacks in NFL history.

Wirfs' deal includes a $140 million total value with an average annual salary (AAV) of $28 million, and that salary is enough to make him the highest-paid offensive non-QB in the NFC South. By Wirfs signing this historic agreement, the Buccaneers guaranteed that they had great protection to help protect quarterback Baker Mayfield.

Highest Paid Non-QB By Division:

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READ MORE: What’s missing? Buccaneers’ top roster needs post-NFL free agency

Other top earners in the NFC South division include Carolina Panthers cornerback Jaycee Horn (four years, $100 million), Atlanta Falcons guard Chris Lindstrom (five years, $102.5 million) and New Orleans Saints tackle Ryan Ramczyk (five years, $96 million).

Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs at the line of scrimmage against the Kansas City Chiefs. | Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Tristan Wirfs was selected 13th in the 2020 NFL Draft by Tampa Bay. He stood out on the line while starting as a right tackle initially. His contribution to the Bucs Super Bowl LV win, by protecting Tom Brady and leading pass protection, highlighted his influence.

Wirfs made a switch from right tackle to left tackle in 2023, which resulted in him receiving All-Pro honors this season. Wirfs is the first player ever to be recognized as an All-Pro at both left and right tackle positions in the history of the NFL.

Wirfs’ contract shows the rising significance of linemen in today’s NFL amidst a league that typically rewards skill players with deals.

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