The quarterback draft class of 2020 is shaping up to become the highest-paid group of quarterbacks from any draft in NFL history. In just under 16 months, the five quarterbacks selected in the first two rounds of the 2020 draft have collectively signed contracts worth over $1.2 billion, setting a new milestone in the league.
Joe Burrow, the first overall pick, signed a lucrative five-year, $275 million deal with the Cincinnati Bengals last summer, including a $40 million signing bonus. This was surpassed by the five-year, $262.5 million contract that the Los Angeles Chargers awarded to Justin Herbert, the sixth overall pick.
Jalen Hurts, a second-round selection, secured a five-year, $255 million extension with the Philadelphia Eagles in April 2021, shortly after leading his team to a Super Bowl appearance. Tua Tagovailoa and Jordan Love, the final two quarterbacks from the 2020 class, both received substantial extensions on the same day. Tagovailoa signed a four-year, $212.4 million deal with the Miami Dolphins, while Love inked a four-year, $220 million contract with the Green Bay Packers.
These quarterbacks now hold five of the 12 richest contracts in NFL history, showcasing their impressive achievements early in their careers. Despite not yet claiming a Super Bowl win, MVP title, or first-team All-Pro recognition, they have excelled statistically, throwing for a combined total of 60,474 yards and 394 touchdown passes in their first four seasons.
The 2020 quarterback class has displayed exceptional performance on the field, with all five quarterbacks leading their teams to playoff appearances. Although they have faced challenges such as injuries and playoff losses, their regular-season performances have been outstanding, positioning them as one of the most productive draft classes in NFL history.
With the potential for further success and milestones ahead, the 2020 quarterback class is on track to rank among the top quarterbacks in league history, challenging legendary classes like the 1983 and 2004 drafts. Their early career achievements suggest a promising future, with the possibility of surpassing longstanding records before they reach the age of 30.
