The Buccaneers have named Antoine Winfield Jr. the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history.
Winfield, 25, has signed a four-year contract worth £67 million, with £36 million guaranteed, setting another record for a safety. Two years after signing his historic contract, his annual earnings surpass those of Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander by £20,000.
Derwin James previously held the distinction of highest-paid safety after signing a four-year, £61 million contract extension with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022, with £33 million guaranteed. Winfield is now projected to earn more than £1.6 million per season, making him the first safety to earn more over $20 million per year and surpassing Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
David Mulugheta of Athletes First, Winfield’s agent, announced the historic event on social media after a video call with his client, publishing images of their conversation. “Couldn’t be happier to make this call and let (Antoine Winfield Jr.) know he just made HISTORY!,” the Instagram caption read.
“This is the first time a safety has been the highest-paid defensive back in the NFL. In a year when the value of safeties has been called into question, the Buccaneer Organization, the Glazer Family, and General Manager Jason Licht have stepped up and cared after one of their most valued family members.”
“Congratulations, Antoine; you have accomplished something never done before. You will be remembered throughout history as the first. I appreciate your trust and look forward to seeing you back on the pitch.”
Winfield then confirmed the news on his Instagram story. “We trust David Mulugheta! It reads “The best way to do it,” followed by a goat emoji.
The safety also appeared to represent the moment, with the person behind the camera releasing a video dated May 20, 2023. In it, Winfield expresses his desire to be named an All-Pro for the upcoming season, which he accomplished for the first time last year.
Winfield also discussed earning a Pro Bowler, which he has only done once in 2021, and winning the Super Bowl again, although neither happened at Super Bowl LV. But he has now accomplished his ultimate goal: becoming the highest-paid defensive back.
The Bucs placed the franchise tag on him on March 5, and just over two months later, they agreed to a long-term extension. Todd Bowles, the head coach, praised Winfield at the NFL scouting combine.
“[Winfield had] one of the best seasons I’ve seen a safety have as an all-around player, and it wasn’t just in the game – it was in practice as well,” the head coach of the Bucs stated. “He transferred practice to the game… almost better than anybody I’ve been around the past couple of years.”
Winfield tied for the league lead with six forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries last season. The safety also had the fourth most tackles among all defensive backs, with 122.
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