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Devon Witherspoon Signs $132M Extension, NFL’s Top Cornerback

8/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cornerback Devon Witherspoon signed a four-year, $132 million extension with $101 million guaranteed, making him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback.
The deal was announced the morning of Seattle’s preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
In 2023 he recorded 79 tackles, 16 pass breakups and allowed 5.6 yards per target, ranking 11th in the league.
His $33 million average salary surpasses the previous $31.1 million record.

History

Historical Context

In March 2012 the Denver Broncos signed quarterback Peyton Manning to a five-year, $96 million deal, the league’s first guaranteed contract to top nine figures. That landmark deal opened the door for later multi-position mega contracts, such as the Seattle Seahawks paying cornerback Devon Witherspoon an average $33 million per year. Teams now routinely build cap-flexible structures to balance star salaries with overall roster depth.

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Story summary

Cornerback Devon Witherspoon signed a four-year, $132 million extension with $101 million guaranteed, making him the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback.
The deal was announced the morning of Seattle’s preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
In 2023 he recorded 79 tackles, 16 pass breakups and allowed 5.6 yards per target, ranking 11th in the league.
His $33 million average salary surpasses the previous $31.1 million record.

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