NFL Salary Cap Surge Breaks Tom Brady Earnings Records

Massive increases in television revenue and salary cap inflation have skyrocketed NFL player compensation over the years. Tom Brady's career earnings record was recently surpassed by Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Stafford.

The financial landscape has shifted drastically since 2000, as Courtney Brown's historic salary now equates to a second-round contract. First overall pick Fernando Mendoza secured a four-year deal worth 57.