Jared Goff’s Position Shifts After Brock Purdy’s $265 Million Contract
In the wake of a major development in the NFL quarterback market, a new five-year, $265 million deal has reshaped the financial landscape—and Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff’s contract status is directly impacted.
Elite quarterbacks in today’s NFL command massive paychecks, especially those considered the face of their franchise. So, it came as no shock when the San Francisco 49ers secured Brock Purdy with a blockbuster extension reported on May 16, 2025, by both ESPN and NFL Network. Despite entering the league as “Mr. Irrelevant,” Purdy has become indispensable to the Niners.
This deal has stirred questions around where Jared Goff, who signed a major four-year extension with the Lions in 2024, now ranks among the highest-paid quarterbacks in the league. That contract made Goff the most expensive player in Detroit Lions history at the time.
Goff and Purdy Now Even in Annual Pay
With Purdy’s new contract averaging $53 million per year, he now matches Jared Goff in terms of annual salary. Both quarterbacks are now tied for the seventh-highest yearly quarterback earnings across the league.
Those ahead of them in average annual salary include:
- Dak Prescott (Cowboys): $60 million
- Joe Burrow (Bengals): $55 million
- Josh Allen (Bills): $55 million
- Jordan Love (Packers): $55 million
- Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars): $55 million
- Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins): $53.1 million
It’s a bit surprising to see Tagovailoa edge out Goff slightly, but the NFL salary market often produces such head-scratchers.
Purdy was set to enter the final year of his rookie deal in 2025. Since taking over the starting role in 2022, he has made two playoff appearances in three years, highlighted by a Super Bowl run following a dramatic comeback against the Lions in the NFC Championship game. That moment still stings for Detroit fans.
Purdy’s performance over his early career has been solid: a 67.5% completion rate, 9,518 passing yards, 64 touchdowns, and 27 interceptions. He also finished fourth in the MVP voting for the 2023 season.
Perspectives on the Purdy-Goff Pay Comparison
In an article published on May 17, Niners Nation’s Patrick Holloway highlighted that Purdy didn’t push for top-tier quarterback money like Prescott or Lawrence. “Is he a better quarterback than those two?” Holloway asked. “If his achievements mean anything, the answer might be yes.”
He continued by pointing out that Purdy’s slightly lower deal could help the 49ers spend more on other key areas, like their offensive line or keeping key receivers on board—essentials for maximizing his potential.
A commenter also drew comparisons to Jared Goff, stating that Purdy’s contract “looks fair,” especially after a tough 2024 season and in light of his physical limitations. “Landing around Jared Goff’s salary feels about right,” they said. “It could turn into a bargain if Purdy takes another leap forward.”
