Every NFL team’s highest salary for the 2023 season

New York Giants: Leonard Williams — $32.26 million

Leonard Williams is proof second chances can work in the NFL. After spending the first portion of his career fighting bust status with the New York Jets, Williams didn’t even have to leave his home stadium when he was traded to the New York Giants. There, he became the defensive lineman he was drafted to be.

Williams’ cap hit might look surprising, but that’s what happens where there is a $14 million prorated bonus involved. His cap number went insane this season after two modest years in 2021 and 2022. The contract was very smart from the Williams camp. Even with an $18 million savings, the Giants wouldn’t cut Williams with $14 million in guaranteed money left.

There is news that the Giants could be looking to extend Williams this offseason. That could help the Giants save money now, or it could keep Williams away from free agency. In a perfect world, it would do both. We don’t think he would give up enough money for Daniel Jones and his $21 million cap hit to surpass him, but it could make significant money available.

The Giants were front and center for contract negotiations all offseason. The conversation about the value of running backs centered partially around Saquon Barkley and his inability to sign a new deal. Barkley is such a pivotal part of this offense, but now he’s facing another free-agency push. Williams is in the same boat, but a franchise tag is less likely for him. The negotiation process should be a fascinating one.