How many millions will former Boise State stars make in NFL? Take a peek
Less than a year ago, former Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty reportedly turned down big-time NIL offers from college football juggernauts to stay at Boise State.
Some people may have questioned Jeanty’s decision, at least from a financial standpoint. But now? It probably turned out to be a decision that was beneficial for his wallet.
The 5-foot-9 running back was selected sixth overall by the Las Vegas Raiders in last month’s NFL Draft, and he’s already going to be one of the highest-paid running backs in the league.
Jeanty will make $32 million guaranteed on his rookie contract, according to HERO Sports, including a whopping $22.7 million signing bonus. That put him behind only the Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley ($36 million signing bonus) among the highest-paid running backs.
But that’s not all.
According to Spotrac, a sports contract and salaries tracker, Jeanty’s four-year rookie deal has the potential to rise to $35.8 million, including bonuses. He also has a fifth-year option, and his $8.9 million Average Annual Value (AAV), which simplifies a player’s contract to an annual wage, ranks 10th among NFL running backs.
Jeanty’s standout 2024 season with the Broncos set him up for his immediate rookie payday. He ran for the second-most rushing yards in a single season in college football history (2,601), and finished second in Heisman Trophy voting.
And he isn’t the only former Boise State player enjoying a new NFL payday.
The Detroit Lions selected defensive end Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round, 196th overall. Hassanein was the only other BSU player expected to be drafted after a senior year that saw him record 12.5 sacks, 53 tackles and two forced fumbles.
According to Spotrac, Hassanein’s four-year rookie contract will earn him $4.4 million, including a $229,472 signing bonus.
Several other former Broncos were also signed as undrafted free agents: offensive lineman Ben Dooley (Los Angeles Rams), wide receiver Cam Camper (Jacksonville Jaguars) and defensive back Seyi Oladipo (Miami Dolphins).
Only Dooley’s contract is available on Spotrac. After six years at Boise State, he will earn $2.97 million over three years, giving him an average annual salary of $988,333.
