How Much Is Carson Wentz Making This Year

Alright, grab your mug. Let’s talk about Carson Wentz. You know, the quarterback who’s been on more teams than a rental car? He’s currently the backup for the Kansas City Chiefs. So, how much is Carson Wentz making this year?

Buckle up, because the number is wild. His 2024 contract with the Chiefs is worth a base salary of $2.2 million. That’s a lot of coffee, right? But wait, there’s a little more to the story.

Let’s break down the base deal

A base of $2.2 million sounds nice. But for a former No. 2 overall pick? It’s practically couch change. He also got a $1.5 million signing bonus. That’s the “thanks for showing up” money.

So, total guarantee? $3.3 million. That’s what the Chiefs are on the hook for. No matter what. Even if he never throws a pass. Which, let’s be real, is kind of the dream job.

But wait, there’s more (incentives)

Here’s where it gets fun. He can earn up to $3.2 million more in playtime incentives. That’s if Patrick Mahomes takes a nap on the sideline. Or if the Chiefs are up by 40 points and let him mop up.

Think of it like a loyalty card: If he plays 40% of the snaps, he gets a bonus. If he plays 50%, he gets more. It’s essentially a “please don’t break the TV” fund. The maximum total cap hit? A cool $5.5 million.

Is that a lot for a backup? Eh, it’s average. For context, the highest-paid backup in the league makes about double that. But for Carson, it’s a redemption tour. Or a “hey, I still have a pulse” tour.

Former Eagles QB Carson Wentz making NFL history with Vikings - nj.com

Compare this to his glory days

Remember when he was on the Eagles? He signed a four-year, $128 million extension. That’s $32 million per year. Now he’s making about the price of a nice SUV. Rhetorical question: How the mighty have fallen, huh?

In 2021, he made $25.4 million with the Colts. In 2022 (Washington), it was $28 million. Last year with the Rams? Just $1.2 million. So this $3.3 million is actually a raise from last year. Progress!

The real question: why is he here?

The Chiefs signed him for one reason: insurance. If Mahomes gets a hangnail, Wentz steps in. He’s 31, has a cannon arm, and knows Andy Reid’s system from his Washington days. He’s like that spare tire you hope never to use.

But here’s the funny part: He’s making $3.3 million to be a glorified practice squad member. He’s the ultimate “what if?” backup. What if he rediscovers his magic? What if he doesn’t? The Chiefs don’t seem to care. They just need a warm body.

So, what’s the bottom line?

For the 2024 season, Carson Wentz will earn at least $3.3 million. If he plays a lot (which, let’s be honest, means bad things for the Chiefs), it could hit $5.5 million. That’s about $100,000 per game if he’s active. Not bad for holding a clipboard.

Carson Wentz Net Worth - How Much Is The NFL Quarterback Worth?

Is he overpaid? Underpaid? Compared to his prime, he’s taking a 90% pay cut. Compared to your salary, it’s ridiculous. But in NFL backup terms? It’s a solid, middle-class deal.

One more thing: He also gets a $500,000 workout bonus. Yes, he’s paid to go to the gym. Imagine getting paid to run on a treadmill. That’s Carson Wentz’s life right now.

The final verdict

Carson Wentz is making $2.2 million base, $1.5 million signing bonus, and up to $1.8 million in per-game roster bonuses. That’s roughly $3.3 million guaranteed. He’s the most expensive insurance policy in Kansas City.

So, next time you see him on the sideline in a puffy jacket, remember: He’s making about $17,000 per day just to watch Patrick Mahomes do magic. Not a bad gig, if you can get it.

And hey, if the Chiefs win the Super Bowl, he’ll get a ring. And a playoff bonus. So maybe this year, the money isn’t the point. It’s about timing. Or maybe it’s just about showing up. Either way, buy him a coffee. He can afford it.