5 NFL players not deserving of their current bumper contracts
When NFL teams sign a player to a massive contract, they hope the player can live up to the expectations that come along with the deal. Unfortunately, it doesn't always work out that way. Every year in the NFL, some players are overpaid relative to their production. Here are five that qualify ahead of the 2022 NFL season.
5 overpaid NFL players ahead of the 2022 season
#1 - Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys
Ezekiel Elliott was once one of the most dominant running backs in the entire NFL, which is why the Dallas Cowboys gave him one of the biggest contracts of any running back of all time. He carried a cap hit of 18.2 million dollars in the 2022 season, the third-highest among all running backs. Unfortunately, his production has fallen off significantly over the last few years.
Elliott eclipsed 350 touches and 1,750 total yards in each of his first three full seasons with the Cowboys while averaging more than five yards per touch. He has failed to reach 300 touches and 1,350 total yards in either of his last two seasons while averaging less than 4.5 yards per touch. The Cowboys are paying for the prime version of Elliott, but he appears to be past that.
#2 - Christian Kirk, Jacksonville Jaguars
Christian Kirk effectively guaranteed $19.5M per year for 2 years on his contract.
For comparison likely effective deals: Davante Adams $22.5M for 3 years, Tyreek Hill $24M for 3/4 years.
Kirk should give his agent a bonus.
Christian Kirk signed a massive contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars during the 2022 NFL free agency period. The deal is worth 39 million dollars in guaranteed money and could be worth 72 million dollars. The Jaguars are taking a relatively high risk on a wide receiver who has never exceeded 80 receptions or 1,000 yards in any season of his entire career.