The NFL landscape is notorious for its complex and often inflated player contracts. Each offseason, teams sometimes overspend, lured by the prospect of securing talent that might not necessarily deliver commensurate value. As we look ahead to 2026, we've highlighted some of the most overpaid players at each position, providing crucial insights for general managers (GMs) on the pitfalls to avoid.
Quarterback Quandary: Deshaun Watson
In the highly competitive quarterback market, Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns stands as a glaring example of a costly miscalculation. With a projected cash salary of $46 million in 2026, Watson ranks as the ninth-highest paid QB. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam recognized the fallout from the 2022 trade, admitting, "We took a big swing and miss with Deshaun. We thought we had the quarterback, we didn't..." Since joining Cleveland, Watson has missed 32 games due to suspensions and injuries, casting doubt on his ability to even secure a starting position ahead of the upcoming season.
Running Back Woes: Alvin Kamara
As teams assess their running back situations, New Orleans Saints' Alvin Kamara faces critical scrutiny. With a 2026 salary of $11.5 million and a cash rank tied for ninth among running backs, Kamara's productivity has sharply declined. Last season, he recorded just 657 scrimmage yards and a single touchdown after failing to make a Pro Bowl appearance since 2021. Following the team's signing of Travis Etienne Jr. to a lucrative contract, questions loom regarding Kamara's future with the Saints.
Wide Receiver Misjudgment: Christian Watson
Amid fiery debates over free agency impacts, the Green Bay Packers' decision to extend Christian Watson's contract for $92 million raised eyebrows. Set to earn $34.8 million in 2026, Watson's performance has not matched his paycheck, as he has yet to post a season with more than 41 catches or 620 receiving yards. Injuries have marred his career, making him a risky financial commitment, especially with other emerging talents on the roster like Jayden Reed.
Tight End Drop-off: Evan Engram
Evan Engram, a tight end of the Denver Broncos, faces a similar fate with a 2026 cash salary of $11.5 million. Following a stellar 2023 Pro Bowl season, his production has plummeted significantly over the past two years. Now entering his age-32 season, Engram's role appears diminished within a crowded receiving corps, which could lead to an unfulfilled contract obligation for the Broncos.
Offensive Tackle Challenges: Dan Moore Jr.
For the Tennessee Titans, troubles lurk in their offensive line, particularly concerning Dan Moore Jr. With a $20 million salary in 2026, he ranks 14th among offensive tackles, but poor performance has kept him on this overpaid list. Moore needs to show improvement with a new coaching staff after a disappointing track record of pass blocking that contributed to high sack rates.
Defensive Struggles: Alim McNeill
Alim McNeill, a defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions, currently commands a hefty salary of $24 million in 2026, yet struggles to justify this price tag with subpar performance. Recorded minimal production with just one sack last season and 14 games missed over his career, McNeill's future with the Lions hinges on his ability to improve.
Linebacker Dilemma: Patrick Queen
Inside linebacker Patrick Queen finds himself at an uncomfortable intersection. While his statistics may appear decent on paper, the Pittsburgh Steelers must contend with his lack of coverage reliability, making his $13.3 million cash salary questionable in light of his performance struggles. With modifications underway in the defensive setup, expectations rise for Queen to justify his salary.
Edge Rusher Questions: Jaelan Phillips
In the edge-rushing department, Jaelan Phillips presents yet another cautionary tale. The Panthers’ robust investment has him projected to earn $36.2 million in 2026 despite a disappointing injury history that has limited his effectiveness on the field. The unprecedented contract value raises concerns, especially when juxtaposed with his actual production metrics, signaling that he may be overpaid at this level.
Cornerback Potential: Alontae Taylor
The Titans took a gamble on Alontae Taylor, whose growth potential is overshadowed by recent inconsistencies. With a cash salary of $22 million, the expectations are high; however, his past performance has obscured his reliability in coverage. Consistency remains a key concern as the Titans hope he can produce at the expected level.
The Safety Situation: Bryan Cook
Bryan Cook's role with the Cincinnati Bengals as a safety sees him drawing a considerable salary of $18 million in 2026. Although his versatility is notable, his lack of impactful plays could detract from his value as one of the more expensive options in the market. Clear expectations must be set, as such investments should yield significant contributions, especially in critical moments.
As the NFL teams gear up for the new season, it's paramount that GMs learn from these overpaid contracts. With careful scrutiny of past outcomes and current capabilities, franchises can avoid making similar costly mistakes in the future. The NFL operates in a competitive space; hence, teams must navigate these decisions wisely to position themselves for success.
