NFL power rankings: 30 richest active players

5. Ben Roethlisberger – $158,286,864

The 2004 NFL Draft was loaded with star talent at the quarterback position, and guys like Philip Rivers, Eli Manning, and Ben Roethlisberger have certainly lived up to that billing. Big Ben has been an absolute star for the Steelers since the team made him the 11th overall selection in that draft, leading the franchise to two Super Bowl titles. Roethlisberger had been named a Pro Bowler five times, and out of all the talent in that draft class, he was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

The Miami (OH) product has made his fair share of money during his career, and it started with the six-year, $22.26 million contract he signed as a rookie. In 2008, the Steelers made him another big offer, signing him to another six-year deal, but this time for over $87 million. In 2014, Roethlisberger would sign another deal upwards of $87 million, as the team now controls his rights until the 2020 season.

Big Ben has already been talking about retirement, so his days of getting big pay days are likely over. Still, the Steelers struck gold at No. 11 during the 2004 draft, and since that day, Roethlisberger has thrown over 300 touchdown passes. He has had his issues off the field, but you have to think the Steelers have gotten their money’s worth each time they have offered the big guy a new contract.