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Joe Burrow reflects on signing bonus tax shock after Bengals payday

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 3:04 AM

Last updated Jun 13, 2026

Joe Burrow reflects on signing bonus tax shock after Bengals payday

Summary

Joe Burrow shared his experience with the impact of taxes on his $24.6 million signing bonus after joining the Cincinnati Bengals. Initially thrilled with a rookie contract worth over $36 million, Burrow was taken aback to discover half of his bonus was deducted for taxes upon receipt. His comments highlight the complexities athletes face regarding financial management after signing lucrative contracts. Burrow, now in a five-year, $275 million extension, focuses on maintaining health and performance for a successful upcoming season.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Burrow's rookie contract was worth over $36 million.
•He signed a fully guaranteed deal as the No. 1 pick in 2020.
•Burrow's initial shock came from seeing taxes deducted from his bonus.
•He now has a five-year contract extension worth $275 million.
•Health is crucial for Burrow's performance in the upcoming season.

Latest Updates

3:04 AMYahoo Sports — Joe Burrow was stunned by what he found after his $24.6 million bonus hit his account

What they're saying

"
Joe Burrow’s first NFL payday sounded simple on paper, but the Bengals quarterback quickly learned how different a signing bonus looks after taxes. The story has resurfaced because it captures a side of rookie fame most fans never see.
— Yahoo Sports

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