Breaking down the first-round contracts

To more accurately reflect the actual value of first-round rookie contracts, Pro Football Weekly presents its signing information in a unique format. As shown in the tables below for 2009 and 2010 first-round picks, the four categories (left to right) indicate: (1) contract length in years; (2) actual nfl throwback jerseys
guaranteed money after options; (3) total five-year value based on player achieving minimum playing-time thresholds; and (4) maximum contract value — if all incentives are met. The five-year value is considered a more realistic total-earning figure, given that many incentives will not be met and a rookie contract will likely be ripped up and redone prior to the final year of the deal.