Comparing Juan Soto's record $765 million deal to the largest contracts in NBA, NFL & NHL history ft. Jayson Tatum, Patrick Mahomes
The MLB community was left shocked and in disbelief after the news broke that Juan Soto signed a 15-year $765 million deal with the New York Mets. While there have been updates around the growing number of his potential deal, no one was prepared for him to sign the richest contract in baseball history.
On Dec. 11, 2023, Shohei Ohtani signed a 10-year $700 million deal with the LA Dodgers, and although he will make more per season, Soto's new contract trumps his overall monetary value. Even though Soto is one of the best players in baseball, the contract has left many not only questioning if he is worth that money, but also how it compares to superstars across other American sports.
Here's a closer look at Juan Soto's contract compared the top contracts in the other major North American sports
Patrick Mahomes, NFL ($450 million)
In 2020, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback signed a 10-year $450 million contract extension, keeping him with the club until the end of the 2031 season. Patrick Mahomes is viewed as one of the best QBs of all time which justified his lucrative deal. His contract pales in comparison to Juan Soto's despite his remarkable track record.
Jayson Tatum, NBA ($314 million)
When it comes to the NBA, Jayson Tatum may not be widely regarded as the best player in the league; however, his undeniable talent has helped him secure the richest valued contract in basketball history. On July 1, Tatum inked a five-year $314 million extension with the Boston Celtics, exactly two weeks after winning his first NBA title.
Leon Draisaitl, NHL ($112 million)
Unlike the other North American sports, NHL players are paid less than MLB, NFL and NBA players. Their salaries are nothing to scoff at with the average superstar clearing $10 million per year. When it comes to the richest contract in NHL history, the honor falls to Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl.
In September, the German center signed an eight-year extension worth $122 million to remain with Edmonton until the end of the 2032-33 season. If all goes according to plan, the Oilers will have the combination of Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid together for the foreseeable future. Juan Soto's deal makes Draisaitl's look like an average player in the MLB despite being one of the top players in the NHL.