Inside the NFL's preseason paychecks: How players earn, endure, and push toward the roster
The
NFL
dazzles fans with primetime touchdowns and roaring stadiums, but behind the scenes lies a stark reality—players, especially rookies and fringe hopefuls, aren't raking in millions from the start.
Long before the regular season kicks off, many athletes are grinding through training camps, earning modest stipends, sharing hotel rooms, and fighting for their future. It's a financial and emotional battlefield that most fans never see. Here's a look at how NFL pay really works before the lights come on.
Veterans paid more than rookies—no matter their star power or contracts
Each summer, NFL players report to training camp with one goal: to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster. However, their compensation during this period is uniform across the league and not based on individual contracts.
As per the 2024 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), veteran players earn $3,200 per week, while first-year players receive $1,850 per week. These fixed per diems begin on the first day of camp and continue throughout the preseason.
Across the typical six-week period, this amounts to roughly $19,200 for veterans and just over $11,000 for rookies. While this sum may be insignificant to high-earning stars, it's crucial for late-round picks and undrafted players trying to make ends meet.
For many, this income covers basic expenses like rent, groceries, or airfare back home if they don't make the cut.
Travel meals, Hall of Fame games, and the quiet discipline of camp life
During travel days—including preseason, regular season, and postseason—players are reimbursed at flat rates: $38 for breakfast, $48 for lunch, and $66 for dinner. These figures apply equally to rookies and veterans, showcasing the league's standardized treatment in camp logistics.
Most teams typically play three preseason games, although those selected for the annual Hall of Fame Game will play a fourth.
These games serve as low-risk environments to evaluate talent while avoiding unnecessary injuries. Though intensity is lower, the stakes are high for players on the roster bubble.
Once the regular season begins, players receive game checks on a weekly basis, with their total annual salary divided across 18 weeks. This includes 17 regular-season games and one bye week, as structured by the league's current schedule.
These payments are disbursed every Monday, ensuring steady income throughout the season.
Here's how some players still get paid- even after being cut from the team
Not every player survives camp. Those released before the final roster cuts may qualify for a salary continuation benefit, which provides partial compensation based on what they would have earned had they remained on the team. It's a small but vital financial cushion, especially for undrafted rookies or veterans making late comebacks.
The emotional toll is significant—one day a player is making tackles in front of coaches, the next they're packing up and heading home. Some bunk two to a room. Others squeeze playbook study in between meals and medical treatment. The system may appear harsh, but it also highlights the extraordinary discipline and resilience required to chase an NFL dream.
Equal bonuses for all rostered players, no matter their contract or status
If a team makes the playoffs, every player on the active roster earns a uniform game check, regardless of their contract or experience.
These postseason bonuses are pre-determined and not linked to a player's base salary. For many, particularly those on minimum contracts, the playoffs offer their most lucrative stretch of the year.
At the end of the day, it's more than just a paycheck
Behind every helmet is a story—of sacrifice, late nights, and dreams that started on high school fields. For many players, especially those fighting for a roster spot, the preseason is more than a job—it's their once-in-a-lifetime shot.
The pay might be modest, the pressure immense, but the hope is always real. Because in the NFL, even the smallest paycheck can be the price of chasing greatness.
'A lot harder practices. The NFL is mostly taking care of your body.' — Jerry Jeudy, wide receiver, speaking about the demands of preseason training camp. Jeudy's words echo what so many young players experience during camp: long days, high stakes, and the physical toll that comes with chasing a dream that pays little at first—but could change their lives forever.
Also read:
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nfl/news/lane-johnson-joins-madden-99-club-ends-eagles-18-year-wait-for-gaming-glory/articleshow/122967448.cms
FAQs
Q1: Do NFL players get paid per preseason game?
No. They're paid a weekly stipend during camp and preseason: $3,200/week for veterans and $1,850/week for first-year players. These figures are fixed league-wide.
Q2: Is postseason pay the same for all players on a team?
Yes. All rostered players earn equal postseason bonuses per game, regardless of their position or contract value.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
38 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Sterling Sharpe gives fellow Pro Football Hall of Fame brother Shannon his gold jacket
Sterling Sharpe stood at the podium a few feet from his bronze bust, took off his new gold jacket and gave it to his fellow Pro Football Hall of Fame brother. HT Image Shannon Sharpe had given Sterling his first Super Bowl ring and now big brother was returning the favor on stage after the crowning moment of his football career. 'This is why I played football,' Sterling said, referring to his younger brother, who wrapped his arm around him and had tears streaming down his face. 'This is why I got out of bed; it wasn't work. It was because of this right here. Before I leave you, I want to do two things. The most precious gift I've ever received is the Super Bowl ring. ... I wear this ring because of love. You gave me this not knowing you were going to get another one. And I prayed to God: 'Please, God, let him get another.' God blessed him with two. 'The second thing is, the last time I was here, you said that you were the only pro football player in the Hall of Fame that could say that you were the second-best player in your own family. I agree with that statement, but it would be an extreme privilege. ... for you to be the only player in the Pro Football Hall of Fame with two gold jackets. You see, you have to learn to follow before you can lead.' Eric Allen, Jared Allen and Antonio Gates joined Sterling Sharpe as the Class of 2025 was inducted into football immortality during a ceremony at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, where the Los Angeles Chargers beat the Detroit Lions 34-7 on Thursday night to kick off the NFL preseason. Sterling Sharpe averaged 85 catches and 1,162 yards, finishing with 65 touchdowns in seven seasons with the Green Bay Packers. The wide receiver was named to five Pro Bowls and earned first-team All-Pro honors three times. A neck injury cut his career short and he waited a long time to get the call from the Hall. Shannon Sharpe, who played tight end for the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens, was inducted in 2011. They are the first brothers in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Jared Allen was the first player among the new class to take the stage after Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas led the crowd in singing 'Happy Birthday' to former Bills coach Marv Levy, who turns 100 on Sunday. Wearing his trademark cowboy hat, Allen talked about his motivation for success. 'Why is what makes you different; it's your long game,' he said. 'It's the motivation that drives you to do all necessary action steps to achieve your goal. My why can be summed up in three things: fear, respect and the pursuit of greatness. ... I apply my why to everything in my life, to my walk with Christ, my marriage and being a father.' Jared Allen made five Pro Bowls, was a four-time All-Pro and had 136 sacks in 12 seasons with the Chiefs, Vikings, Bears and Panthers. His final game was Super Bowl 50, a loss by Carolina against Peyton Manning and the Broncos. Eric Allen, a six-time Pro Bowl cornerback who played for the Eagles, Saints and Raiders, was presented by one of his four sons. Allen, who had 54 career interceptions, including eight returned for touchdowns, gave the obligatory 'Fly! Eagles! Fly!' to support the Super Bowl champions who drafted him in 1988. 'I grew up in Philadelphia. I became a man there. I have a special gratitude for the organization,' Allen said. Allen also thanked current Raiders owner Mark Davis, who was in attendance. 'Al Davis had a statement: 'Commitment to excellence,' Allen said. 'It's all over our building in Las Vegas. We are trying to make sure we fulfill that destiny, we fulfill what Al Davis was about.' Gates closed out the day with a 23-minute speech that began with him saying he wouldn't cry but included several emotional moments. Gates, who was presented by Chargers owner Dean Spanos, never played a single down of college football yet ended up becoming the 23rd of 382 Hall of Famers who were undrafted by NFL teams. He thanked former Chargers tight ends coach Tim Brewster for discovering him after he led Kent State's basketball team to the Elite Eight. 'Tim Brewster saw something special in me. He was pretty sure that I could make the team. He was adamant that I'd be All-Pro in three years,' Gates said. 'You see, the thing is when switching sports or careers for that matter, it can be life-changing. The unexpected are often the most powerful ones because it can completely redirect your life if you're ready to take advantage and you're ready for the opportunity. Thank you to Coach Tim Brewster and Coach Marty Schottenheimer. They gave me an opportunity to play tight end in the NFL. Because of you, Coach Tim Brewster, NFL teams and NFL scouts will never look at college basketball players the same again.' Gates played all 16 of his NFL seasons with the Chargers, finishing with 955 catches for 11,841 yards and 116 TDs. He made the Pro Bowl eight times and was All-Pro three times, the first in just his second season. ____ AP NFL:
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
'If they only talk about gold jacket, I failed': Fans call Jared Allen's Hall of Fame speech one of the most beautiful ever heard
Jared Allen Puts Fatherhood First in His Powerful Hall of Fame Speech Jared Allen didn't show up to the Hall of Fame stage just to talk about tackles, sacks, or stats. Nope, he pulled up with a gold jacket and a message that hit way harder than any defensive play. In a moment that had the entire NFL world emotional, Allen turned to his daughters. And just when we thought it couldn't get deeper, Jay Glazer came in with a tribute thread that had fans sobbing into their jerseys. Jared Allen's Hall of Fame speech wasn't about glory, it was about being a dad, a husband, and a real one Standing tall in his gold jacket, Allen could've easily rattled off a highlight reel of his monster stats or career highs. But instead? He turned the spotlight on what actually mattered to him, his family. His speech made it crystal clear, Football gave him a platform, but legacy is about what you build off the field. — vikingzfanpage (@vikingzfanpage) That line to his daughters, 'When I get called to home to heaven one day, if all they talk about is this gold jacket and my career, then I failed miserably as a father, husband and a friend. You two are my legacy.' wasn't just cute. It was profound. And it instantly went viral, because in a world where everyone's chasing clout, Jared Allen reminded us that real greatness starts at home. Jay Glazer's tribute revealed how Jared Allen saved him during one of the darkest chapters of his life Jay Glazer didn't just post a 'congrats bro' message. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Older Women: How to Apply Make-Up That Enhances, Not Hides Learn More Undo He dropped a full emotional saga. Back in 2004, when FOX forced Glazer to stop fighting and life hit him with a brutal divorce, he says his soul was wrecked. Jared Allen didn't walk away, he leaned in. They trained twice a day. Lifted. Sparred. And while Glazer kept grinding, hoping FOX would let him fight again, Jared wasn't just a workout buddy. He was there every night, making sure Glazer wasn't drowning in loneliness. 'He waited on me like a mom waiting for her kid to finish soccer practice,' Glazer wrote. That's the kind of loyalty you can't fake. The story that's unfolding around Jared Allen this Hall of Fame weekend isn't about numbers. It's about impact. Whether it's Jay Glazer saying Allen helped him survive his darkest nights, or Allen himself tearing up talking about his daughters, the theme is clear: Greatness isn't just what you do, it's how you make people feel. That gold jacket? It's just fabric. The legacy Jared Allen built? That's stitched into lives. Also read - Shannon Sharpe breaks down as he gives brother Sterling the Hall of Fame honor of a lifetime For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Shannon Sharpe breaks down as he gives brother Sterling the Hall of Fame honor of a lifetime
Shannon Sharpe shares raw, tearful Hall of Fame moment with brother Sterling. You know those rare sports moments that make even the toughest fans tear up? Yeah, this was one of them. On August 2, 2025, NFL fans witnessed a once-in-a-lifetime scene as Shannon Sharpe helped his big brother Sterling Sharpe into his gold jacket, making them the first set of siblings ever inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. That's right, two brothers, two legendary careers, one unforgettable legacy. And it wasn't just about football stats or highlight reels. It was about family, perseverance, and a decades-long fight for respect. For Shannon, it was the moment he'd literally said he'd trade his own career for. For Sterling, it was long overdue recognition. For the NFL? It was history. The Sharpe brothers become the first siblings in Hall of Fame history, and the ceremony couldn't have been more emotional Sterling Sharpe, the legendary Packers receiver, finally got his gold jacket in Canton. Standing beside him? None other than his younger brother, Shannon- The NFL icon, TV personality, and Hall of Famer since 2011, who proudly presented the jacket. Shannon didn't just show up, he broke down in tears while slipping it on Sterling's shoulders. Fans online were instantly emotional, calling it 'the most beautiful gold jacket moment ever.' Shannon Sharpe's tearful tribute brought it all full circle after years of fighting for his brother's legacy This wasn't just ceremonial for Shannon, it was personal. Back in his own Hall of Fame speech in 2011, Shannon said he'd give up every accolade he earned if it meant Sterling could be recognized too. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Moose Approaches Girl At Bus Stop In Fes-meknes - Watch What Happens Happy in Shape Undo That's how much he believed his brother deserved the same honor. Now, 14 years later, that dream became real. Sources say Shannon even asked ESPN to delay announcing his departure from the network so it wouldn't overshadow Sterling's moment in the spotlight. If that doesn't say brotherhood, what does? Sterling's career may have been cut short, but his numbers were always Hall of Fame-worthy Sterling Sharpe only played seven NFL seasons due to a career-ending neck injury, but the guy was an absolute force. He racked up five Pro Bowl selections, three All-Pro nods, and led the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns at different points. In 1992, he completed the Triple Crown for receivers, an insanely rare feat. It was never about the quantity of seasons with Sterling. It was always about quality. Still, the Hall of Fame doors stayed shut for years. That is, until 2025. Shannon said it best: 'Everything I am, everything people know me for, I got from you.' This moment wasn't about analysts or sportswriters, it was about two brothers who beat the odds, inspired each other, and redefined greatness. Also read - 'Take Jalen's d**k out of your mouth': Johnny Manziel goes full savage on Gillie Da Kid in the weirdest football beef of the year For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
