Although the NFL Draft‘s first night may garner most of the attention, the league’s real financial engine frequently operates in the background. Fourth-round picks sign contracts that, despite being significantly smaller, still offer life-changing sums as the spotlight moves away from the glitz of the first round. This is especially true for those who are ready to take advantage of every opportunity, every snap, and every rep.
As rookies started completing deals in recent days, it became abundantly evident that fourth-round picks are worth more than most fans think. They are selected in the sweet spot of team-friendly economics and athlete upside, but they are not in the news. These selections, which range from No. 103 to No. 138 in 2025, are a part of a well-planned pay scale that takes opportunity and restraint into account.
Estimated Rookie Salary Range for 4th Round Picks (2025)
| Pick Number | Estimated Total Contract | Signing Bonus | 2025 Base Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| No. 103 | $5.16 million | ~$735,000 | $840,000 |
| No. 110 | $5.10 million | ~$725,000 | $840,000 |
| No. 120 | $5.04 million | ~$710,000 | $840,000 |
| No. 130 | $4.98 million | ~$695,000 | $840,000 |
| No. 135 (Comp) | $4.78 million | ~$660,000 | $840,000 |
Beyond the News: Why the Fourth Round Is Still Beneficial
The NFL has greatly lessened the tumultuous negotiations that formerly surrounded rookie contracts by instituting a fixed wage scale. Now you have purposeful predictability. Fourth-round picks’ four-year contracts still provide significant value in relation to team payrolls, even though they will not be eligible for the fully guaranteed, five-year options that first-round picks receive.
For instance, a player selected at No. 120 in the draft could anticipate earning over $5 million over the course of four seasons, plus a signing bonus of nearly $710,000. It’s incredibly successful at securing momentum for career advancement as well as financial runway.
These selections are very adaptable for teams, providing athletic potential without putting a strain on salary caps. Players have the opportunity to demonstrate that selection on Day 3 does not preclude Day 1 performance.
Not Underappreciated Despite Being Drafted in the Shadows
Fourth-round picks are extremely effective additions when considering the overall development of the roster. They frequently offer depth, strength on special teams, and in a number of situations, turn into standout starters. Day 3 picks like David Bakhtiari and Za’Darius Smith performed noticeably better than their contracts.
Front offices can concentrate their spending on expensive veterans at key positions by utilizing mid-round talent. Under the league’s strict salary cap, this balancing act is especially advantageous.
What Does a Rookie Contract Actually Contain?
The base salary, signing bonus, per-game roster bonuses, and possible performance escalators are all components of a rookie’s contract. Fourth-round picks begin with a low base salary, but statistical incentives and playtime milestones can significantly increase their earnings.
Each fourth-round rookie essentially goes through a “prove-it phase”—not just to coaches or fans, but also to the contract. Players may be eligible for escalators that raise their Year 4 salary to levels more akin to those of Day 2 draftees if they meet playing time thresholds.
The Long Run: Strategic Benefits for Teams and Players
Financially speaking, fourth-round contracts are very effective. Contributors are acquired by teams for an average of $1.25 million per year, which is about one-third of what a mid-tier veteran would cost. Players gain stability and the opportunity to set the stage for a much bigger second contract in the interim.
Day 3 athletes frequently take a positive outlook on their careers, using their “overlooked” status as motivation for constant improvement. When that hunger is translated into output, a $5 million deal becomes a $40 million future.
Exceptionally Valuable, Even if Not Always in the Public Eye
Despite not receiving the red carpet treatment on draft night, fourth-round selections are becoming more and more acknowledged as essential components of winning rosters. The fourth round is a springboard, not a barrier, for young athletes with strong work ethics and resilient bodies.
These low-key contract additions have the power to change both team dynamics and individual legacies as the 2025 rookie class begins training camps. Because in the NFL, where every dollar counts and every roster spot is up for grabs, the players who make the most of their fourth-round salary could end up being the most economical stars in the league.
