Picture Supply: 123rf.com
Whenever you consider NFL riches, names like Mahomes or Rodgers in all probability come to thoughts. However do you know a few of the league’s backup NFL gamers are quietly stacking multi-million greenback fortunes? From hefty contracts to savvy investments, these sideline standbys are raking in severe dough. Let’s spotlight 9 backup NFL gamers who could be your subsequent favourite millionaire. You’ll be shocked how a lot “behind-the-scenes” expertise is cashing in.
1. Chase Daniel – The King of the Bench
Chase Daniel is the poster boy for backup wealth, incomes roughly $42 million throughout a 14‑season profession with groups just like the Saints and Chiefs. Remarkably, he solely made 5 NFL begins but collected large paychecks—about $8.3 million per begin. His offers got here from worthwhile depth and mentoring roles—expertise groups are prepared to pay prime greenback for. Daniel’s instance exhibits the actual worth of being the final word insurance coverage coverage. He’s proof that backups may be as bankable as starters.
2. Kirk Cousins – From Starter to Backup Money Machine
After Atlanta named rookie Michael Penix Jr. the starter, veteran Kirk Cousins turned one of many league’s highest‑paid backup QBs at $27.5 million for the 2025 season. His 4‑12 months, $180 million contract has assured tens of tens of millions, even whereas serving as a backup. Although he transitioned backward in position, his wealth didn’t take a success. Cousins exhibits how veteran QBs money in long-term, even from the bench.
3. Taysom Hill – Versatile and Invaluable
Taysom Hill isn’t your typical QB backup—he’s a Swiss Military Knife on the sphere, decoding a number of roles for the Saints. His $12 million common annual wage underlines that worth. Plus, a brand new $140 million extension expanded his compensation by way of artistic cap structuring. Hill’s distinctive versatility offers depth and adaptability, incomes him starter-level pay with fewer snaps.
4. Teddy Bridgewater – Dependable Second Banana
Lengthy-term starter turned backup, Teddy Bridgewater, now earns about $11.5 million a 12 months backing up Denver’s QB. In 2021, he ranked second amongst backups at $11.5M common. That type of safety exhibits backup roles pays for constant efficiency and veteran polish. Bridgewater illustrates how depth may be golden within the NFL.
5. Cooper Rush – From Undrafted to $7 Million Web Value
Cooper Rush, undrafted and neglected, proved his value stepping in for Dak Prescott in 2024. He now boasts a $7 million internet value and has landed a $12.2 million assured two-year cope with the Ravens. His rise proves alternative can come unexpectedly, however wealth follows efficiency. Rush reminds us that backups can flip an opportunity right into a mini-fortune.
6. Mac Jones – Excessive-Paid Current Backup
Former Patriots starter Mac Jones parlayed his expertise right into a two-year, $7 million cope with the 49ers—$5 million assured, as much as $11.5 million. Although not a profession backup, this veteran position displays how reserve QBs can nonetheless earn robust contracts. Jones’s transfer proves even current starters can money in from the bench.
7. Joshua Dobbs – Journeyman with a Strong Deal
Joshua Dobbs earned a two-year, $8 million deal—with $3.8 million assured—to again up Drake Maye in New England. His roles throughout a number of groups have made him a dependable mid-tier backup. It exhibits journeyman QBs can leverage expertise into wealth and job stability.
8. Jarrett Stidham – Denver’s Trusted Depth
After signing with Denver in 2023, Jarrett Stidham not too long ago secured a two-year, $12 million extension (with $7 million assured). That places his common at $6 million per 12 months, regular earnings from a usually underpaid position. Stidham exemplifies how consistency and group match pays huge, even with out common begins.
9. Zach Wilson – Backup for a Worth
Former prime‑2 decide Zach Wilson landed a one-year, $6 million cope with Miami in 2025 to again up Tua Tagovailoa. That’s elevated cash for a backup position, exhibiting even underperforming starters can discover monetary redemption. Wilson’s contract highlights the continuing worth groups place on skilled depth.
Is The Bench The New Goldmine?
Backup NFL gamers aren’t simply ready within the wings—they’re cashing in. With assured pay, veteran worth, and area of interest expertise, their roles are extra profitable than some starters. In the event you’re searching for a narrative that redefines success in soccer, the actual cash lives on the bench. These 9 backup NFL gamers are prime examples of how endurance, readiness, and consistency result in severe wealth.
Had been you shocked by how a lot these backup NFL gamers are incomes? Which sideline millionaire did you discover most spectacular? Drop your ideas beneath and let’s chat!
Learn Extra
What Is Jason Kelce’s Web Value After Leaving The NFL?
What Being on Shark Tank Really Pays Off—Right here’s What 5 Contestants Are Now Value
Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. She incessantly writes for a handful of blogs and likes to share her personal private finance story with others. When she isn’t typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time along with her daughter, son, husband, and canine. Throughout her free time, you’re more likely to discover her along with her nostril in a e-book, climbing, or enjoying RPG video video games.
