The market for elite offensive linemen continues to climb across the NFL, and the latest blockbuster extension for Chicago Bears right tackle Darnell Wright has once again reset the standard.
Wright agreed to a four-year, $116 million contract extension, worth $29 million per season, making him the highest-paid right tackle in NFL history and the second-highest-paid offensive lineman in the league based on average annual value (AAV).
As teams continue investing heavily in quarterback protection, offensive linemen are earning contracts that rival many star defensive players and skill-position stars.
Highest-Paid Offensive Linemen in the NFL (2026)
Here are the NFL’s highest-paid offensive linemen based on average annual salary (AAV):
| Rank | Player | Team | Position | Average Annual Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Laremy Tunsil | Washington Commanders | Left Tackle | $30.1 million |
| 2 | Darnell Wright | Chicago Bears | Right Tackle | $29.0 million |
| 3 | Rashawn Slater | Los Angeles Chargers | Left Tackle | $28.5 million |
| 4 | Tristan Wirfs | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Left Tackle | $28.1 million |
| 5 | Penei Sewell | Detroit Lions | Right Tackle | $28.0 million |
| 6 | Tyler Linderbaum | Las Vegas Raiders | Center | $27.0 million |
| 7 | Tyler Smith | Dallas Cowboys | Left Guard | $26.75 million |
| 8 | Trey Smith | Kansas City Chiefs | Right Guard | $23.5 million |
| 9 | Chris Lindstrom | Atlanta Falcons | Right Guard | $21.75 million |
| 10 | Creed Humphrey | Kansas City Chiefs | Center | $18.0 million |
Darnell Wright Becomes the NFL’s Highest-Paid Right Tackle
Chicago selected Darnell Wright with the 10th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, and he has quickly developed into one of the league’s premier offensive tackles.
His new extension averages $29 million per year, surpassing Detroit Lions star Penei Sewell as the league’s highest-paid right tackle.
The Bears’ investment reflects Wright’s importance in protecting franchise quarterback Caleb Williams while anchoring one of the NFL’s youngest offensive lines.
Offensive Tackles Continue to Lead NFL Salaries
No offensive line position commands more money than tackle.
Elite left tackles remain among the most valuable players on offense because they protect a quarterback’s blind side, while right tackles have become nearly as valuable due to the rise of elite pass rushers lining up on both edges.
The five highest-paid tackles now all average at least $28 million per season, demonstrating how much NFL franchises prioritize pass protection.
Highest-Paid Offensive Linemen by Position
Left Tackle
- Laremy Tunsil (Washington Commanders) — $30.1 million
Right Tackle
- Darnell Wright (Chicago Bears) — $29.0 million
Guard
- Tyler Smith (Dallas Cowboys) — $26.75 million
Center
- Tyler Linderbaum (Las Vegas Raiders) — $27.0 million
The Offensive Line Market Continues to Grow
Quarterback contracts have exploded over the past decade, and the value of protecting those investments has increased just as rapidly.
Teams are now willing to pay nearly $30 million annually for elite offensive tackles, while guards and centers have also reached record-breaking contract values.
With young stars like Darnell Wright, Rashawn Slater, Tyler Smith, and Penei Sewell entering their prime, the offensive line market is expected to continue climbing in future NFL offseasons.
FAQ
Who is the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL?
Washington Commanders left tackle Laremy Tunsil is currently the NFL’s highest-paid offensive lineman, earning $30.1 million per year.
Who is the highest-paid right tackle?
Darnell Wright of the Chicago Bears became the NFL’s highest-paid right tackle after signing a four-year, $116 million extension worth $29 million annually.
Who is the highest-paid guard in the NFL?
Dallas Cowboys standout Tyler Smith leads all NFL guards with an average annual salary of $26.75 million.
Who is the highest-paid center in the NFL?
Las Vegas Raiders center Tyler Linderbaum tops all centers with an average annual value of $27 million per season.