What happened: A five-dollar bill was pressed to Jalen Carter’s chest with the line, “Let me put five on top of that.” His four-year extension runs through 2031.
Why it matters: The contract puts Carter atop the NFL defensive tackle pay scale at age 24. It resolves a major long-term roster question before the 2026 season.
By the numbers: Four years, $152 million; $106 million guaranteed; up to $160 million; $38 million average annual value.
What to watch: Carter’s 2026 performance will carry the benchmark set by the NFL’s new top salary at his position.