Lost in the NFL's wacky off-season that seemed to include non-stop scandal was a very lucrative summer for a number of players who signed enormous contracts.
In the NFL, the standard for large contracts is to forego long-term security with unguaranteed salaries in exchange for huge signing bonuses up front. As a result, many of the players who will earn the most money this year signed new contracts since the end of the 2014 season.
This year's list of the highest-paid players includes 11 quarterbacks, five wide receivers, four defensive ends, and two Mannings. However, there is no Tom Brady or Jameis Winston.
Here are the 29 players who will make at least $15 million this season.
#27t Rob Gronkowski — $15,000,000
Team: New England Patriots
Position: Tight End
2015 earnings breakdown: $10.0 million signing bonus, $4.75 million salary, $250,000 workout bonus.
One thing to know: With the Patriots locking up Gronkowski to a 6-year, $54 million contract in 2012, they got one of the best steals in the NFL. Gronk will have salaries of $2.25 million and $4.25 million the next two years.
#27t Peyton Manning — $15,000,000
Team: Denver Broncos
Position: Quarterback
2015 earnings breakdown: $15.0 million salary
One thing to know: Peyton Manning can earn up to $4 million in bonuses if the Broncos win the Super Bowl this year.
#27t Demaryius Thomas — $15,000,000
Team: Denver Broncos
Position: Wide Receiver
2015 earnings breakdown: $4.0 million signing bonus, $4.5 million salary, $6.5 million roster bonus.
One thing to know: Thomas signed a 5-year, $70.0 million contract this off-season.
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