OSU alum Garrett Wilson’s extension proves NFL WR contracts have exploded, but is today’s $40M group better than the stars of the 2010s?

The wide receiver market has exploded over the past decade, and with Garrett Wilson’s new $32.5 million per year deal officially reported by Adam Shefter, the question practically asks itself:

How does today’s group of highest-paid receivers compare to the stars of 2015?

Thanks to inflation, TV deals, and the growing value of elite pass catchers, the numbers today are staggering. But was the talent better then or now?

Top Six Highest-Paid NFL Wide Receivers in 2015

1. Calvin Johnson – $16.2 million per year (Detroit Lions)
    
2. A.J. Green – $15 million per year (Cincinnati Bengals)
    
3. Julio Jones – $14.25 million per year (Atlanta Falcons)
    
4. Dez Bryant – $14 million per year (Dallas Cowboys)
    
5. Demaryius Thomas – $14 million per year (Denver Broncos)
    
6. Mike Wallace – $12 million per year (Miami Dolphins)
    

At the time, these deals reset the market. Calvin Johnson’s $16.2 million per year was viewed as a quarterback-level contract in 2012. These were elite WR1s, many of whom will be remembered as franchise icons.

Top Six Highest-Paid NFL Wide Receivers in 2025 

1. Ja’Marr Chase – $40.25 million per year (Cincinnati Bengals)
    
2. Justin Jefferson – $35 million per year (Minnesota Vikings)
    
3. CeeDee Lamb – $34 million per year (Dallas Cowboys)
    
4. DK Metcalf – $33 million per year (Seattle Seahawks)
    
5. Garrett Wilson – $32.5 million per year (New York Jets)
    
6. A.J. Brown – $32 million per year (Philadelphia Eagles)
    

Today’s numbers reflect a different NFL. Teams are now paying receivers franchise quarterback money due to the increasing emphasis on the passing game and the need for explosive playmakers.

This group also represents a new breed of athlete: younger, faster, and often more productive earlier in their careers.

Comparing the Talent vs. Market

2015 Class Strengths

• Multiple Hall of Fame talents (Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones)
   
• Physical, dominant WR1s who could take over games in any era
   

2025 Class Strengths

• Dynamic after-the-catch playmakers (Chase, Jefferson, Lamb)
   
• Younger players already putting up historic numbers
   
• Reflects the modern shift in offensive philosophy
   

The numbers may say 2025 is king, but the 2015 group may still carry more legacy. Johnson and Jones were generational talents whose primes defined their franchises. However, players like Chase and Jefferson are on pace to match or exceed those career arcs, and they’re being paid accordingly.

Ultimately, the answer depends on your preference.