NFL's 20 richest players of all-time

NFL’s 20 richest players of all-time

Oct 7, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) shakes hands with Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) following the game at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Broncos 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 7, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Jarvis Jones (95) rushes at the line of scrimmage against Cleveland Browns tackle Joe Thomas (73) during the first quarter at Heinz Field. The Steelers won 30-27. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

17. Joe Thomas – $89,850,000

The perennial Pro Bowler, Joe Thomas, 29, is making $10.9 million this season in the middle of the seven-year, $80.5 million extension that will all but guarantee the former Wisconsin Badgers left tackle plays his entire career in a Cleveland Browns uniform.

Cleveland made Thomas the No. 3 overall pick in the 2007 draft and he has lived up to the billing by being selected to seven Pro Bowls and has been one of the most dependable and consistent players at his or any other position in the league by starting all 114 games since entering the league out of Wisconsin.

You have to wonder how Thomas’ perception would be different if Thomas played for a team in a bigger market or for a team who experienced some success compared to the Browns who have consistently been among the poorer teams in the NFL during his Hall of Fame career.

Next: Dwight Freeney

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