NFL

Top 10 Highest-Paid NFL Pass Rushers In 2025

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Maxx Crosby stands with his arms down.

There is a new highest-paid defensive player in the NFL, Maxx Crosby. After his contract extension, where does Crosby’s salary rank among the top ends in the NFL? Below is the list of the top 10 highest-paid pass rushers in the NFL.

Maxx Crosby Signs Historic Extension

Crosby is now a very wealthy man.

The Raiders and Crosby agreed to a three-year, $106.5 million contract extension, which includes $91.5 million guaranteed.

Crosby is now signed through the 2029 season, the team announced Wednesday.

Crosby is now the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, with an average annual salary of $35.5 million. Crosby’s salary surpasses Justin Jefferson’s $35 million annually.

The former fourth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft is one of the best edge rushers in the NFL.

Crosby has been named to four consecutive Pro Bowls. Crosby has received second-team All-Pro honors twice (2021 and 2023).

In 2024, Crosby registered 45 tackles and 7.5 sacks in 12 games before ankle surgery ended his season.

Since 2019, Crosby’s 59.5 career sacks are tied for fourth in the NFL. Crosby’s 364 tackles are the most in franchise history for a defensive lineman in their first six seasons.

Crosby is now the cornerstone of a Raiders defense that should improve under new coach Pete Carroll.

Highest Paid NFL Pass Rushers

Player Team Annual Salary
Maxx Crosby LV $35.5 million
Nick Bosa SF $34 million
Josh Hines-Allen JAX $28.25 million
Brian Burns NYG $28.2 million
T.J. Watt  PIT $28 million
Myles Garrett CLE $25 million
Montez Sweat CHI $24.5 million
Danielle Hunter HOU $24.5 million
Rashan Gary GB $24 million
Bradley Chubb MIA $22 million

Crosby now sits at the top of the list for highest-paid pass rushers.

San Francisco’s Nick Bosa ($34 million) is the only other player besides Crosby above $30 million annually.

Three players’ salaries average $28 million per year: Jacksonville’s Josh Hines-Allen ($28.25 million), New York’s Brian Burns ($28.2 million), and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt ($28 million).

Watch out for Cleveland’s Myles Garrett. The superstar defensive end has requested a trade away from the Browns and wants a new contract. Garrett could join Crosby and Bosa as the only players above $30 million annually.