NFL defensive linemen are plaguing the opposition and as a result, they are seeing their salaries go up.

9 defensive linemen now make at least $17 million in average annual salary per year, per overthecap.com, a site that tracks NFL player contracts (through Aug. 13, 2019).

16 make at least $15 million.

32 make at least $10 million.

The highest paid defensive linemen in the NFL is the Los Angeles Rams’ Aaron Donald. He makes $22.5 million per season.

PHOTOS: Ranking NFL defensive linemen by salary

NFL’s highest paid defensive linemen (average salary per year):

• 1. Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald: $22.5 million
• 2. Cowboys defensive lineman Demarcus Lawrence: $21 million
• 3. Chiefs defensive lineman Frank Clark: $20.8 million
• 4. Lions defensive lineman Trey Flowers: $18 million
• 5. Saints defensive lineman Cameron Jordan: $17.5 million  
• 6. 49ers defensive lineman Dee Ford: $17 million 
• 7. Browns defensive lineman Olivier Vernon: $17 million    
• 8. Eagles defensive lineman Fletcher Cox: $17 million
• 9. Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett: $17 million
• 10. Texans defensive lineman J.J. Watt: $16.7 million

– Source: overthecap.com

To see the 32 NFL defensive linemen who make at least $10 million a year in average salary, ranked from highest average salary to lowest, click here.

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