Who are the highest-paid defensive linemen in the NFL for the 2025 season?

The position has some of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the league with 20 defensive linemen (excluding edge rushers) currently set to make at least $15 million per season in average annual salary, led by a defensive lineman who is earning an average of $31.75 million per season.

There are 14 NFL defensive linemen making at least $20 million a season entering 2025 NFL free agency.

Here's a look at the top 10 defensive linemen in the league, ranked by average annual salary, per overthecap.com , a site that tracks NFL player contracts (through Feb. 28, 2025).

Who is the highest-paid defensive lineman in the NFL?

The Kansas City Chiefs ' Chris Jones is currently the highest-paid defensive lineman in the NFL, with an average annual salary of $31.75 million.

His current contract has a total value of $158.75 million, with a total guaranteed amount of $95 million.

Which NFL defensive linemen will make the most in 2025?

Jones has company on the list of the top-paid defensive linemen in the NFL.

The Las Vegas Raiders ' Christian Wilkins is second, at $27.5 million per season, with the Baltimore Ravens ' Nnamdi Madubuike third, at $24.5 million.

Alim McNiell of the Detroit Lions is fourth, with an average annual salary of $24.25 million, with Derrick Brown of the Carolina Panthers fifth, at $24 million, tied with the New York Jets ' Quinnen Williams among the highest-paid NFL D-linemen in the league.

NFL's highest-paid defensive linemen in 2025 (average salary per year):

Reach Jeremy Cluff at . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter @Jeremy_Cluff.

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