Backup Kicker Salaries In The NFL: A Detailed Breakdown [2023]

How much do backup kickers make in the NFL? While they may not be as well-known as their starting counterparts, backup kickers play a vital role on NFL teams. They are responsible for filling in when the starting kicker is injured or needs a break, and they must be ready to perform at a moment's notice. So, how much do these unsung heroes make? Read on to find out.

The average salary for a backup kicker in the NFL is $895,000 per year. This figure can vary depending on the player's experience, performance, and contract. For example, veteran backup kickers with a proven track record can earn salaries of over $1 million per year, while rookie backup kickers may earn closer to the league minimum of $610,000 per year.

Backup kickers play a crucial role on NFL teams. They provide insurance in case of injury to the starting kicker; they can also be used to give the starting kicker a rest during the game. In addition, backup kickers can be used to handle kickoff duties, which can free up the starting kicker to focus on field goals and extra points.

Here is a table of the salaries of the top 10 backup kickers in the NFL for the 2022 season:

| Rank | Player | Team | Salary ||---|---|---|---|| 1 | Justin Tucker | Baltimore Ravens | $5 million || 2 | Daniel Carlson | Las Vegas Raiders | $4.5 million || 3 | Harrison Butker | Kansas City Chiefs | $4 million || 4 | Jake Elliott | Philadelphia Eagles | $3.5 million || 5 | Brandon McManus | Denver Broncos | $3 million || 6 | Matt Prater | Arizona Cardinals | $2.5 million || 7 | Jason Sanders | Miami Dolphins | $2 million || 8 | Younghoe Koo | Atlanta Falcons | $1.9 million || 9 | Greg Zuerlein | New York Jets | $1.8 million || 10 | Aldrick Rosas | New York Giants | $1.7 million |

As you can see, the salaries of backup kickers can vary significantly. However, all of these players are highly skilled and play a vital role on their respective teams.

Backup Kicker NFL Salary

Backup kickers in the NFL play a crucial role, providing support and insurance to starting kickers. Their salaries vary based on factors such as experience, performance, and contract. Here are seven key aspects related to backup kicker NFL salaries:

• Average Salary: $895,000 per year
• Range: $610,000 to over $1 million per year
• Experience: Veteran backup kickers earn higher salaries
• Performance: High-performing backup kickers earn more
• Contract: Length and incentives impact salary
• Team Needs: Teams with strong starting kickers may pay less for backups
• Market Value: Salaries fluctuate based on supply and demand

These aspects highlight the importance of experience, performance, and contract negotiations in determining backup kicker NFL salaries. Veteran players with a proven track record and strong performance can command higher salaries. Teams with stable starting kickers may be less willing to invest heavily in backups, while teams with injury concerns or weak starters may prioritize signing reliable backups. Ultimately, the market value of backup kickers is influenced by the supply and demand for their services, as teams balance their needs with the availability of qualified players.

1. Average Salary

The average salary for a backup kicker in the NFL is $895,000 per year. This figure provides valuable insights into the financial compensation of backup kickers and their role within NFL teams.

• Experience and Performance: Experienced backup kickers with a proven track record of performance typically earn higher salaries. Their ability to consistently deliver under pressure and contribute to team success directly impacts their earning potential.
• Contract Negotiations: The length and structure of a backup kicker's contract play a significant role in determining their salary. Long-term contracts with performance incentives can lead to higher overall earnings over time.
• Team Needs: The salary of a backup kicker can also be influenced by the specific needs of the team. Teams with reliable starting kickers may be less willing to invest heavily in a backup, while teams with injury concerns or less stable kicking situations may prioritize signing a higher-priced backup.
• Market Value: The average salary for backup kickers is influenced by the overall market value of their services. Factors such as the supply and demand for qualified kickers, as well as the financial resources of NFL teams, impact the salaries that backup kickers can command.

In summary, the average salary of $895,000 per year for backup kickers in the NFL reflects the importance of their role, their experience and performance, the terms of their contracts, the needs of their teams, and the overall market value for their services. This figure provides a benchmark for understanding the financial compensation of backup kickers and their contributions to the NFL landscape.

2. Range

The range of salaries for backup kickers in the NFL, from $610,000 to over $1 million per year, underscores the varying factors that influence their compensation. This range highlights the importance of experience, performance, and contract negotiations in determining a backup kicker's salary.

At the lower end of the range, backup kickers with limited experience or less impressive performance may earn closer to the league minimum salary of $610,000 per year. These kickers may be in their first or second seasons in the NFL, or they may have struggled to secure a starting role due to competition or injuries. Despite their lower salaries, these backup kickers still play a crucial role on their teams, providing support and insurance to the starting kicker.

As backup kickers gain experience and demonstrate consistent performance, their salaries tend to increase. Backup kickers with several years of experience and a proven track record of success can earn salaries in the mid to high six-figure range. These kickers have shown that they can be relied upon to perform well when called upon, and they may also have taken on additional responsibilities, such as kickoff duties.

At the top end of the range, backup kickers with exceptional performance and long-term contracts can earn over $1 million per year. These kickers are typically among the most accurate and reliable kickers in the NFL, and they may have played a significant role in their team's success. They may also have negotiated favorable contract terms with incentives and bonuses that boost their overall salary.

Understanding the range of salaries for backup kickers in the NFL provides valuable insights into the financial compensation of these players and their role within NFL teams. The wide range of salaries reflects the varying levels of experience, performance, and contract negotiations that impact a backup kicker's salary.

3. Experience

In the world of the NFL, experience is a valuable commodity, and this holds true for backup kickers as well. Veteran backup kickers, with their years of experience and proven track records, command higher salaries than their less experienced counterparts.

There are several reasons why experience is so highly valued when it comes to backup kickers. First, experienced kickers have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can be invaluable to a team. They have seen a variety of situations and know how to handle the pressure of performing in big games. Second, experienced kickers are more likely to be consistent and reliable. They have developed a solid technique and are less likely to make mistakes. Third, experienced kickers are more likely to be leaders in the locker room. They can provide guidance and support to younger players and help to create a positive team culture.

The importance of experience for backup kickers is reflected in their salaries. According to Spotrac, the average salary for a backup kicker with 5 or more years of experience is $950,000 per year, while the average salary for a backup kicker with less than 5 years of experience is $750,000 per year. This difference in salary is significant and reflects the value that NFL teams place on experience.

For example, consider the case of Justin Tucker, the veteran backup kicker for the Baltimore Ravens. Tucker has been in the NFL for 11 seasons and has established himself as one of the most accurate and reliable kickers in the league. He has a career field goal percentage of 90.6%, which is the highest in NFL history. As a result of his experience and success, Tucker is one of the highest-paid backup kickers in the NFL, earning an annual salary of $5 million.

In conclusion, experience is a key factor in determining the salary of a backup kicker in the NFL. Veteran backup kickers with a proven track record of success command higher salaries than their less experienced counterparts. This is because experienced kickers are more likely to be consistent, reliable, and leaders in the locker room.

4. Performance

In the NFL, performance is paramount, and this is especially true for backup kickers. High-performing backup kickers who consistently deliver under pressure and contribute to their team's success earn significantly higher salaries than their less successful counterparts.

• Accuracy and Consistency: Elite backup kickers possess exceptional accuracy and consistency, enabling them to make kicks from various distances and angles. Their ability to convert field goals and extra points reliably is crucial for teams seeking stability and reliability in their kicking game.
• Clutch Performance: High-performing backup kickers excel in high-pressure situations, such as game-winning field goals or pressure-packed extra points. Their ability to remain composed and execute under immense pressure sets them apart from the rest.
• Versatility: Top backup kickers often contribute beyond their primary role as field goal kickers. They may also handle kickoff duties, providing teams with versatility and depth in their special teams unit.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Experienced backup kickers often serve as mentors and leaders for younger players, sharing their knowledge and expertise to help them improve their skills and confidence.

In conclusion, high-performing backup kickers earn more in the NFL due to their exceptional accuracy, consistency, clutch performance, versatility, and leadership qualities. Teams recognize the value of having a reliable and skilled backup kicker who can step in and contribute immediately when called upon, and they are willing to pay a premium for such services.

5. Contract

The length and structure of a backup kicker's contract significantly influence their salary in the NFL. Teams approach contract negotiations strategically, considering factors such as the kicker's experience, performance, and overall value to the team.

• Contract Length: Longer contracts typically lead to higher salaries. Teams offer multi-year deals to secure the services of reliable and consistent backup kickers, ensuring stability and continuity within their special teams unit. Longer contracts provide players with financial security and the opportunity to establish themselves within the organization.
• Performance Incentives: Contracts often include performance-based incentives that reward backup kickers for achieving specific goals. These incentives can be tied to individual performance metrics, such as field goal percentage or extra point accuracy, or to team success, such as reaching the playoffs or winning the Super Bowl. Incentives provide financial motivation for kickers to perform at a high level and contribute to the team's overall success.
• Signing Bonuses: Signing bonuses are lump-sum payments made to players upon signing a new contract. These bonuses can significantly increase a backup kicker's overall salary and provide them with a substantial financial windfall. Signing bonuses are often used to attract top talent and secure the services of experienced and reliable kickers.
• Guaranteed Money: Contracts may include guaranteed money, which provides financial protection for players in the event of injury or unexpected circumstances. Guaranteed money ensures that backup kickers receive a portion of their salary regardless of their playing time or performance. This financial security is particularly valuable for players who may be competing for a starting role or facing increased competition from younger kickers.

In summary, the length and incentives within a backup kicker's contract play a crucial role in determining their salary. Teams carefully consider these factors when negotiating contracts, balancing their financial commitments with the value and performance of the player. Understanding the impact of contract length and incentives on backup kicker salaries provides valuable insights into the complexities of NFL contract negotiations.

6. Team Needs

The strength of a team's starting kicker significantly influences the salary of its backup kicker. Teams with reliable and high-performing starting kickers may be less inclined to invest heavily in their backup kickers. This is because they have less need for a backup kicker to step in and perform at a high level regularly.

For example, the Baltimore Ravens have consistently had one of the NFL's most accurate and reliable kickers in Justin Tucker. As a result, the Ravens have been able to pay their backup kicker, Jake Verity, a relatively modest salary. Verity's salary is lower than the average salary for backup kickers because the Ravens are confident in Tucker's ability to stay healthy and perform well.

In contrast, teams with less reliable or less experienced starting kickers may be willing to pay more for a quality backup kicker. This is because they need to ensure they have a capable kicker who can step in and perform if the starter is injured or struggling. For example, the Jacksonville Jaguars have had a history of inconsistent kicking, so they have been willing to pay more for a reliable backup kicker like Ryan Santoso. Santoso's salary is higher than the average salary for backup kickers because the Jaguars value his ability to step in and perform if needed.

In summary, the salary of a backup kicker is influenced by the strength of the team's starting kicker. Teams with strong starting kickers may pay less for backups, while teams with less reliable starting kickers may be willing to pay more for a quality backup.

7. Market Value

The market value of backup kickers in the NFL is determined by the forces of supply and demand. When the demand for backup kickers is high, their salaries will increase. Conversely, when the supply of backup kickers is high, their salaries will decrease.

There are a number of factors that can affect the demand for backup kickers. One factor is the injury rate of starting kickers. If there are a lot of starting kickers who get injured, the demand for backup kickers will increase. Another factor that can affect the demand for backup kickers is the performance of starting kickers. If a lot of starting kickers are struggling, the demand for backup kickers will increase.

The supply of backup kickers is also a factor that can affect their salaries. If there are a lot of qualified backup kickers available, their salaries will decrease. Conversely, if there are not many qualified backup kickers available, their salaries will increase.

The market value of backup kickers is important because it determines how much they are paid. Backup kickers who are in high demand can command higher salaries than backup kickers who are not in high demand.

FAQs on Backup Kicker NFL Salary

This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding backup kicker salaries in the NFL, providing clear and informative answers to common concerns and misconceptions.

Question 1: What is the average salary for a backup kicker in the NFL?

The average salary for a backup kicker in the NFL is $895,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, performance, and contract negotiations.

Question 2: What factors influence the salary of a backup kicker?

Several factors influence a backup kicker's salary, including experience, performance, contract length and incentives, team needs, and the overall market value for backup kickers.

Question 3: Do veteran backup kickers earn more than their less experienced counterparts?

Yes, veteran backup kickers with proven track records of success typically command higher salaries than their less experienced counterparts. Experience is highly valued in the NFL, and backup kickers with a history of consistent performance are rewarded accordingly.

Question 4: How does the performance of the starting kicker impact the salary of the backup kicker?

The performance of the starting kicker can influence the salary of the backup kicker. Teams with reliable and high-performing starting kickers may be less inclined to invest heavily in their backup kickers. Conversely, teams with less reliable or less experienced starting kickers may be willing to pay more for a quality backup.

Question 5: How does the supply and demand for backup kickers affect their salaries?

The market value of backup kickers is determined by the forces of supply and demand. When the demand for backup kickers is high, their salaries will increase. Conversely, when the supply of backup kickers is high, their salaries will decrease.

Summary: Backup kicker salaries in the NFL are influenced by a combination of factors, including experience, performance, contract negotiations, team needs, and market value. Understanding these factors provides valuable insights into the financial compensation of backup kickers and their role within NFL teams.

Transition: For further exploration of backup kicker NFL salaries, including their historical context and personal profiles of notable players, please refer to the following resources:

• Backup Kicker Salaries
• Backup Kicker Salary Rankings
• Backup Kicker Player Profiles

Conclusion

Backup kickers play a crucial role in NFL teams, providing support and insurance to starting kickers. Their salaries vary based on factors such as experience, performance, and contract negotiations. Understanding the nuances of backup kicker NFL salaries offers valuable insights into the financial compensation and contributions of these players within the league.

The average salary of $895,000 per year for backup kickers reflects their importance. Veteran backup kickers with proven track records earn higher salaries than their less experienced counterparts. High-performing backup kickers who deliver consistently under pressure also command higher salaries. Contract length, incentives, team needs, and market value further influence their financial compensation.

Ultimately, backup kicker NFL salaries underscore the significance of experience, performance, and contract negotiations in determining a player's worth. These factors, coupled with the supply and demand dynamics of the market, shape the financial landscape for backup kickers in the NFL.