Breaking Down the Preseason Paycheck: How Much Do NFL Players Get Paid for Preseason Games?

John Rizzo

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NFL Players Get Paid for Preseason Games

The world of professional football is characterized by glitz, glamour, and multi-million-dollar contracts, but what about the preseason games? 

Often overshadowed by the intensity of the regular season, these exhibition matches serve as a vital testing ground for players, coaches, and teams.

Yet, have you ever wondered how much NFL players get paid for preseason games?

In this blog post, we dive into the intriguing world of preseason compensation in the NFL. We explore the payment structure, consider the differences between rookies and veterans, and examine whether star players earn more. 

From the minimum preseason game check to the impact of collective bargaining agreements, we’ll shed light on the financial side of the game before the real action begins.

So, if you’ve ever been curious about the economics behind those August matchups and their significance in the NFL player’s journey, read on the numbers that underpin the preseason experience. Stay focused. 

Do NFL Players Get Paid for Preseason Games?

NFL players do receive compensation for participating in preseason games, but the payment structure differs from regular-season games. Instead of their usual weekly salaries, players receive a fixed amount per game. 

This amount was set by the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA). In the 2021 CBA, the minimum preseason game check for veterans was $1,100, while rookies received a slightly lower amount.

Keep in mind that these figures may have changed if a new CBA has been negotiated since then. 

Additionally, star players and veterans with significant experience may have negotiated higher NFL preseason salary as part of their contracts. 

Preseason games serve as a crucial evaluation period for teams, allowing them to assess talent and make roster decisions, so players are compensated for their participation, albeit at a reduced rate compared to regular-season games.

How Much Do NFL Players Get Paid for Preseason Games

You must be thinking about whether are NFL players paid for preseason games or not. 

NFL players were paid a fixed amount for preseason games based on the terms outlined in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA). 

The specific payment amounts can vary based on a player’s experience and contract status, but here’s a general idea:

Veterans

Veteran players typically received a minimum preseason game check of $1,100 per game. This amount was stipulated in the 2021 CBA.

Rookies and First-year Players

Rookies and players in their first year in the NFL often received slightly lower preseason game checks compared to veterans.

It’s worth noting that these figures may have changed if a new CBA. Additionally, some players with more significant experience or those who have negotiated special contract terms might receive higher preseason pay. 

NFL preseason games serve as a way for teams to evaluate talent and make roster decisions, and players do receive compensation for their participation in these games, although it is lower than the regular season.

Do NFL Players Get Paid for Training Camp?

Yes, NFL players do receive compensation for participating in NFL training camp. 

The payment structure and specific details can vary based on the terms outlined in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and individual player contracts. 

Players and the league work together to establish fair compensation for the demands and expenses associated with training camp.

They typically receive a daily stipend to cover living expenses during this period, but the specific amount can vary based on factors like experience and contract terms. 

Additionally, some players may have bonuses or incentives related to their training camp participation in their contracts.

It’s important to note that the specifics of training camp compensation can change based on the terms agreed upon in the most recent CBA.

How Much Do NFL Players Make During Training Camp?

How much do NFL players make in training camp?

The amount NFL players make during training camp can vary based on several factors, including their experience, contract status, and the terms negotiated in their individual contracts. 

Here are some general guidelines regarding NFL training camp salary:

Training Camp Stipend

Players typically received a daily stipend or allowance during training camp to cover living expenses. 

This stipend can vary, but it’s meant to assist with costs such as lodging, meals, and incidentals. In 2021, this daily stipend was set at $2,100 for veterans.

Rookies and First-Year Players

Rookies and first-year players often receive a lower stipend compared to veteran players. 

The exact amount may be determined through negotiations between the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) and the NFL as part of the collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Contractual Variations

Some players may negotiate specific terms in their contracts related to NFL training camp salary. 

For instance, highly paid veterans might have clauses that guarantee a certain amount of money during camp, while others might have performance incentives tied to camp participation.

Roster Bonuses

Certain players may have roster bonuses included in their contracts, and these bonuses could be contingent on them making the team’s regular-season roster. 

Players who earn these bonuses often receive them after the final roster cuts at the end of training camp.

CBA Impact

The terms of training camp compensation are subject to negotiations between the NFLPA and the NFL, and they can change with each new CBA. 

Players and the league work together to establish fair compensation for the time and expenses associated with training camp.

It’s essential to note that the specific details of training camp compensation can change based on the terms agreed upon in the most recent CBA.

When Do NFL Players Get Paid?

NFL Players Get Paid

NFL players typically receive their pay in regular installments during the NFL season, although there can be some variations based on contract terms and the specific team’s payroll procedures. 

Here’s a general overview of when NFL players get paid:

Regular Season Payments

During the regular NFL season, which typically spans 17 weeks, players receive their paychecks on a regular schedule. 

Most commonly, players are paid on a weekly basis. They usually receive their paychecks on Tuesdays following a game week. The payment covers their base salary for that week.

Game Checks

Each player’s salary is divided into 17 game checks if they are paid weekly. These game checks are distributed throughout the season, starting from Week 1 and ending with the final regular-season game in Week 17.

Offseason Pay

NFL players also receive payments during the offseason, but these are typically much smaller than their regular-season earnings. 

Players may receive offseason workout bonuses or other contractually agreed-upon payments during this time.

Bonuses and Incentives

In addition to their base salaries, players can earn bonuses and incentives based on their performance, such as Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, and statistical achievements. 

These bonuses are typically paid out at specific times during or after the season, depending on the terms of the contract.

Signing Bonuses

Players often receive a significant portion of their compensation in the form of signing bonuses when they sign their contracts.

These bonuses are typically paid upfront or spread out over the contract’s duration, depending on the contract structure.

Guaranteed Money

Guaranteed money in NFL contracts, including guaranteed salaries and bonuses, is typically paid according to the terms outlined in the contract. 

Some guaranteed money may be paid as a signing bonus, while other portions may be spread out over the contract’s duration.

It’s important to note that while this is the general payment schedule for NFL players, there can be variations based on individual contract terms and negotiations.

FAQs 

How much do NFL players make in preseason?

NFL players receive a fixed amount for participating in preseason games. Veterans typically earned a minimum of $1,100 per preseason game, while rookies received slightly less.

Do players get paid for preseason games?

Yes, NFL players are compensated for their participation in preseason games. 

Although the pay is considerably lower than their regular-season earnings, it serves as a form of payment for their time and efforts during the preseason.

Are rookie players paid the same as veterans for preseason games?

No, rookies often receive a slightly lower preseason game check compared to veteran players. 

The exact amount can vary, but it’s generally determined by the terms established in the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and individual player contracts.

Do star players receive higher pay for preseason games?

Star players and veterans with significant experience may negotiate higher preseason pay as part of their contracts. 

While there is a minimum preseason game check outlined in the CBA, some players can earn more through contract negotiations.

Has the payment structure for preseason games changed recently?

The payment structure for preseason games can change with each new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Any updates or changes would depend on the terms negotiated in subsequent CBAs.

Wrapping Up

While NFL players may not command the same eye-popping salaries during preseason games as they do in the regular season, these exhibition matches are a crucial aspect of their careers. 

The modest preseason paychecks, subject to collective bargaining agreements and contract negotiations, reflect the dedication and hard work of these athletes as they compete for roster spots and refine their skills.

Preseason games may not draw the same attention as Super Bowls, but they serve as the foundation upon which the NFL season is built. 

They offer a chance for rookies to prove themselves, veterans to fine-tune their craft, and teams to make critical decisions. 

So, the next time you watch a preseason matchup, remember that every snap represents an opportunity for these athletes, regardless of the size of their paycheck. Thank you for your support.

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John Rizzo

I am a professional rugby player in the Washington DC-Baltimore area. I have been playing rugby for over 10 years and have had the opportunity to play in many different countries. I am also a coach for both youth and adult rugby teams. I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in Sports Management and Marketing. I am currently working on my MPA from American University and plan to pursue this career path after graduating next year. LinkedIn

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