10 highest-paid defensive tackles in the NFL following Justin Madubuike’s 4-year, $98M deal

The Ravens always take care of their own and just three days after having the franchise tag applied, guaranteeing him $22.1 million for one year, Justin Madubuike is the highest paid defensive tackle in the NFL currently bas on total value.

With 13 sacks this season, @JustinMadubuike is staying in Baltimore 😤 pic.twitter.com/tz6Q0gRJRN

— NFL (@NFL) March 8, 2024

Madubuike, 26, bet on himself last spring, and he is coming off a breakout season in which he produced a career-high 13 sacks for a Ravens defense that led the NFL with 60 sacks last season. Madubuike totaled more sacks last season than he did in his first three seasons combined (8.5 sacks).

With the NFL world reacting to the news, here’s a breakdown of the ten highest paid defensive tackles in the NFL via Over The Cap.

Total value

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – OCTOBER 22: Jared Goff #16 of the Detroit Lions loses the ball as he is sacked by Justin Madubuike #92 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter of the game at M&T Bank Stadium on October 22, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Madubuike’s $98 million puts him at No. 1 in the NFL ahead of Quinnen Williams ($96M).

Average per Year

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws the ball as he is tackled by Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike (92) late in the third quarter. Lawrence was called for intentional grounding on the play. The Jacksonville Jaguars hosted the Baltimore Ravens at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida Sunday Night, December 17, 2023. The Jaguars trailed 10 to 0 at the half and lost 23 to 7. [Bob Self/Florida Times-Union]

Madubuike’s $24.5 million puts him only behind Aaron Donald ($31M) in highest paid based on average per season.

Total Guaranteed

Dec 31, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens tackle Justin Madubuike (92) sacks Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Madubuike’s $53.5 million in total guarantees puts him at sixth in the NFL behind DeForest Buckner.