Quarterbacks have undoubtedly become the most important players in the NFL over the years as teams look to build Super Bowl-caliber franchises.
However, some signal callers isn’t being underpaid compared to Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes and others. In some cases, teams get tremendous value for their starting QBs and that leads to immense on-field success.
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In 2025, the Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl with Sam Darnold coming into the team as a free agent. Meanwhile, the total value of his contract ranks 13th in the league, per Over The Cap, which is way below players that haven’t come close to winning a title yet.
This is a huge sticking point for many franchises because winning is paramount. Getting a quarterback on a cheaper contract often leads to building out a stronger roster with other talented players at positions like wide receiver and on defense.
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Most underpaid NFL QBs
The NFL is consistently finding new talented signal callers, and that’s why many rookies and young quarterbacks are so valuable. 12 current quarterbacks average over $50 million annually, including Allen and Mahomes.
However, the Broncos nearly reached the Super Bowl in 2025 with Bo Nix leading the way and while making significantly less money. However, a postseason injury derailed his chances of leading his team to face the Seahawks.
Meanwhile, other situations like Matthew Stafford’s are the polar opposite considering his veteran status. The Los Angeles Rams star has been in the league 17 seasons, but is still one of the elite signal callers.
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These are some of most underpaid NFL QBs that are making huge contributions to their franchises.
Bo Nix (Denver Broncos)
Contract value: $18,613,166
Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams)
Contract value: $55,000,000
Sam Darnold (Seattle Seahawks)
Contract value: $100,500,000
Drake Maye (New England Patriots)
Contract value: $36,639,764
Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears)
Contract value: $39,486,058
Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders)
Contract value: $37,746,650
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