The life of an NFL practice squad player is one of continuous development and refinement, with the ultimate goal of breaking into the regular roster. While the base salary for an NFL practice squad player is a respectable 8,000 to 10,000 per week, depending on the team and the player’s experience, there are several ways to increase earnings. Here are 12+ ways to earn more on an NFL practice squad:
Performance-Based Bonuses: Many teams offer bonuses tied to performance metrics such as number of reps taken in practice, attendance, and participation in scout teams. These bonuses can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per season.
Signing Bonuses: When a player signs with a team’s practice squad, they can negotiate a signing bonus, which is a one-time payment. The amount of the bonus varies but can be a substantial addition to the practice squad salary.
Roster Bonus: If a practice squad player is elevated to the active roster for a game, they can earn a roster bonus, which is the difference between the practice squad weekly salary and the minimum active roster weekly salary. For the 2022 season, the minimum active roster salary per week is $48,896 for a player with no prior experience, significantly higher than the practice squad rate.
Game Day Activation: Being activated from the practice squad to the active roster on game day comes with a significant pay bump. This opportunity not only increases earnings for that week but also provides invaluable experience and exposure.
Injury Settlements: If a player is injured while on the practice squad and cannot participate for the remainder of the season, they may be eligible for an injury settlement. This settlement is typically a negotiated payment based on the player’s salary and the nature of the injury.
Leveraging Experience: Players with more experience on the practice squad or in the league can negotiate higher salaries for subsequent seasons. Experience and proven performance can lead to better compensation.
Off-Season Workouts and Mini-Camps: Participating in off-season workouts and mini-camps can earn players additional pay. Compensation varies by team and the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) but provides an opportunity for extra income and to get a head start on preparing for the upcoming season.
Position-Specific Bonuses: Some teams offer bonuses for players who excel in specific roles, such as a long snapper or a return specialist. These bonuses recognize the unique value these players bring to the team.
Leadership Roles: Players who take on leadership roles within the practice squad, such as guiding younger players or helping with position-specific drills, can be rewarded with additional compensation or bonuses.
Community and Marketing appearances: Teams often pay players for participating in community events, fan engagements, and marketing appearances. These appearances not only contribute to the team’s outreach and brand but also provide players with an opportunity to earn extra money.
Education and Career Development Incentives: The NFL offers various programs aimed at helping players prepare for life after football, including education and career development incentives. While not directly increasing salary, these programs can lead to long-term financial benefits and career stability.
NFL Players Association Benefits: As members of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), practice squad players are entitled to various benefits, including healthcare, pension plans, and other forms of support. These benefits contribute to the overall compensation package and well-being of the players.
Negotiating Contracts: Players or their agents can negotiate contracts that include escalators based on performance, being elevated to the active roster, or meeting certain playing time thresholds. These contract clauses can significantly increase earnings beyond the standard practice squad salary.
Tax Benefits: Depending on the state and local tax laws where the team is located, practice squad players may enjoy certain tax benefits or lower tax rates compared to active roster players. This can result in higher take-home pay.
Endorsement Opportunities: While practice squad players may not have the same level of recognition as starters, they can still leverage local endorsements, especially if they have a strong community presence or are from the area. These opportunities can provide additional income streams.
Earning more on an NFL practice squad requires a combination of performance, negotiation, and leveraging opportunities provided by the team and the league. While the practice squad salary provides a good base, understanding and accessing these additional income streams can significantly improve a player’s financial situation during their time in the NFL.
