NFL vs. NBA player salaries: Who earns more? | International Sports News
The NFL and NBA might rule American sports, but in terms of player wages, there’s a gigantic pay disparity—and it’s not necessarily what you think. Though the NFL is wealthier in general, NBA players repeatedly surpass their football peers on an individual basis. Why? The reason has to do with roster sizes, revenue splits, and superstar pull. Let’s see why.
NBA players make more per player—a landslide
The NBA average salary per player in the 2024–25 season is a staggering $11.91 million, while NFL players have an average annual salary of between $2.8 million and $3.2 million. That’s nearly four times higher per player in the NBA. Even more telling is the median salary, which gives a better sense of what the majority of players make. The median salary in the NBA is about $3.8 million, but the NFL’s is much lower at $860,000.It’s no wonder: while the cream of the crop of NFL players can earn huge paychecks, the typical NBA player makes much more than the typical NFL star.
Fewer players, more money: Why NBA salaries soar
One key reason? Team size. NFL teams have 53 players, whereas NBA teams have 15. That is fewer mouths to feed in basketball, so teams have more money to spend per player. Although the NFL makes more total revenue, the NBA distributes a greater share of its revenues to player paychecks. The NBA salary cap enables teams to provide larger individual contracts, particularly to franchise players.
Record-breaking deals: NBA stars pace the field
The NBA’s top earners are shattering records. Stephen Curry will make $55.76 million this year, and Jaylen Brown’s new $304 million contract smashed earlier contract amounts. Meanwhile, NFL players such as Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott receive enormous deals, but even Mahomes’ $450 million deal is spread over 10 years, so his average salary per year is less than that of many NBA players.
Why NFL players make less despite the larger revenue
So why do NFL players make less money despite the financial might of the league? The reason is:
- Roster size: The NFL has much larger rosters (53 players per team) compared to the NBA (15 players per team)
- Short careers: Because of the physical nature of the sport, NFL players tend to retire sooner, impacting long-term pay.
- Non-guaranteed contracts: In contrast to the NBA, where contracts are generally guaranteed, NFL contracts typically contain performance bonuses and injury outs.
- Star power: NBA players have a greater worldwide brand identification, creating greater endorsement contracts and foreign fan support.
Last whistle: NBA dominates salary scoreboard
Although the leagues are filled with talent and intensity, when it comes to who gets paid more, the NBA is hands down the winner. Basketball’s worldwide popularity, smaller rosters, and contract guarantees provide NBA players with a substantial advantage in the wallet department.Also read: What is Adam Silver’s net worth? Exploring NBA Commissioner’s fortune and whopping salaryThe NFL might be America’s favorite sport, but when it comes to salaries, the NBA owns the scoreboard.
