Understanding the Income of Cowboys per Game
When it comes to the National Football League (NFL), the Dallas Cowboys are one of the most iconic and successful teams in the league. Fans often wonder about the financial aspect of the players, particularly how much money the cowboys make per game. This article delves into the various dimensions of their earnings, providing a comprehensive overview.
Base Salary and Roster Spot
The primary source of income for a Dallas Cowboy is their base salary. This amount varies significantly based on the player’s position, experience, and overall value to the team. For instance, a starting quarterback might earn millions more than a backup offensive lineman. The average salary for a player on the Cowboys’ roster in 2021 was approximately $2.1 million, according to Spotrac.
However, this figure only represents a portion of their total earnings. The salary cap, which limits the total amount a team can spend on player salaries, also plays a crucial role. The Cowboys have a salary cap of around $198 million for the 2021 season, which they must manage effectively to ensure they can retain their star players and sign new talent.
Performance Bonuses
In addition to their base salary, Cowboys players can earn performance bonuses. These bonuses are typically tied to individual or team achievements, such as reaching the playoffs, winning a championship, or achieving certain statistical milestones. For example, a player might earn a bonus for each game played, or for reaching a certain number of tackles or passing yards.
Performance bonuses can significantly increase a player’s earnings. In 2021, the Cowboys’ offensive tackle Tyron Smith earned a $1.5 million bonus for reaching 1,000 snaps on the offensive line. This bonus brought his total earnings for the season to over $20 million, making him one of the highest-paid players on the team.
Roster Bonuses
Roster bonuses are another form of additional income for Cowboys players. These bonuses are paid out when a player is added to the active roster, typically at the beginning of the season. The amount of the bonus varies depending on the player’s position and experience.
For example, in 2021, the Cowboys’ defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence received a $1.5 million roster bonus. This bonus was part of his overall contract, which included a base salary of $14.5 million and a signing bonus of $10 million.
Endorsement Deals
Endorsement deals are a significant source of income for many Cowboys players. These contracts are typically with major brands and can be worth millions of dollars annually. For instance, quarterback Dak Prescott has endorsement deals with Nike, Pepsi, and others, which have been estimated to be worth over $100 million over the course of his career.
Other Cowboys players, such as Ezekiel Elliott and Amari Cooper, also have lucrative endorsement deals that contribute to their overall income. These deals often include performance incentives, which can further increase their earnings.
Contract Extensions and Franchise Tags
For star players like Dak Prescott, contract extensions and franchise tags are crucial in securing their long-term financial stability. In 2021, Prescott signed a four-year, $160 million extension, which included $100 million guaranteed. This contract made him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in the NFL.
Franchise tags are another way for teams to protect their star players from becoming free agents. In 2021, the Cowboys placed the franchise tag on defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, which guaranteed him a salary of $21.1 million for the season. This tag is a one-year contract that is typically used to retain a player until a long-term deal can be negotiated.
Conclusion
Understanding how much money the Dallas Cowboys make per game requires considering multiple factors, including their base salary, performance bonuses, roster bonuses, endorsement deals, and contract extensions. While the average salary for a player on the team is around $2.1 million, many players earn significantly more through bonuses and endorsements. As the NFL continues to grow, so too does the potential for players to earn substantial incomes.
| Player | Base Salary (2021) | Performance Bonuses (2021) | Roster Bonuses (2021) | Total Earnings (2021) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dak Prescott | $31.5 million | $0 |