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2022 biggest NFL contracts by position and highest-paid players

By Sayre Bedinger

NFL Contracts 2022; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws the ball during AFC practice at the Las Vegas Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
NFL Contracts 2022; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws the ball during AFC practice at the Las Vegas Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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NFL contracts: Darius Leonard #53 of the Indianapolis Colts and AFC runs for a touchdown after intercepting an NFC pass in the first quarter of the game against the NFC during the 2022 NFL Pro Bowl at Allegiant Stadium on February 06, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

Biggest NFL contracts at the linebacker position

Total Money: Darius Leonard, Indianapolis Colts (five years, $98.5 million)

Average annual value: Darius Leonard, Indianapolis Colts ($19.7M per year)

Highest guarantee: Darius Leonard, Indianapolis Colts ($52.5 million)

Is there a more underrated defensive player in the NFL than Darius Leonard?

The former defensive rookie of the year has been an All-Pro for the Indianapolis Colts the last three seasons. He’s been dependable. More than just that, he’s been a consistent stud for them since being selected in the second round out of South Carolina State.

With eight forced fumbles last season in addition to four interceptions and 122 total tackles, it will be tough for Leonard to top the impact he had last season for Matt Eberflus, who is now a head coach with the Chicago Bears.

Leonard is the heart and soul of a very underrated Colts defensive unit as a whole, and he’s one of the top difference makers in the entire league.

His five-year contract worth just under $100 million and over half guaranteed is going to be the benchmark for off-ball linebackers for years to come.

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