When it comes to professional sports, athletes are often in the news for signing massive contracts. While quarterbacks tend to grab most of the attention, there have been some impressive deals signed by non-QB players as well.
The largest non-QB contract in sports history belongs to outfielder Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels. In 2019, Trout signed a 12-year contract extension worth $426.5 million. This deal shattered the previous record set by Bryce Harper`s 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2019.
Trout is widely regarded as one of the best players in the game today, and his contract reflects that. He has won three American League MVP awards and has been named to the All-Star team eight times in his career. Trout`s contract is not only significant for the amount of money he will earn, but also for the length of time he will be with the team.
Another notable non-QB contract was signed by Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts in 2020. Betts signed a 12-year contract extension worth $365 million. This deal came after Betts helped lead the Boston Red Sox to a World Series championship in 2018. Betts is considered one of the best all-around players in the game and is known for his excellent defense and speed on the basepaths.
While these contracts are certainly eye-popping, they do come with their risks. Injuries can derail a player`s career and leave a team on the hook for millions of dollars. Additionally, long-term contracts can become burdensome as a player ages and their performance declines.
Despite these risks, teams are willing to shell out massive amounts of money for the best players in the game. For fans, it can be exciting to see their favorite players rewarded for their hard work and talent. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see who lands the next record-breaking contract.