Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. believes he should receive a contract with an average annual salary of $40 million per season, according to an article ESPN's Josh Weinfuss published in late June.
The former first-round pick addressed that statement this week. He said he was answering a question about how he would grade himself as an elite tackle. Johnson argued that since offensive linemen have to block edge rushers who are making up to $50 million per season, elite pass-blockers should make the same.
"Of course, I believe in myself," Johnson said on PHNX Sports. "I believe I'm one of the best, and I believe that I have to prove that each and every year. And I believe my best football is ahead of me."
He added, "Now, the tackle market is not there. The tackle market, it goes up, probably $1 (million) over the next guy, and that's just what it is. The D-linemen are not going for ($35 million-$50 million). That's another conversation.
"However, my mindset is: I believe that elite guys who rush the quarterback, that's what the market is for them. And I believe that it takes an equivalent-level player to shut that guy down. So I'm not going out there, 'Oh, pay me $28 million, $28.5 (million).' No. When the guy I'm going against is making $48 (million) a year, I need a $48 (million) mindset for myself. I know that's not what the market is."
Washington Commanders offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil is the highest-paid at his position, making $30.1 million per season. Houston Texans edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. signed a contract in April that'll net him an average annual salary of $50 million.
Johnson is extension-eligible after completing his third season in the league. Arizona picked up his fifth-year option three months ago, which was worth just over $19 million, locking him under contract through the 2027 season.
The 25-year-old has been the Cardinals' primary starting left tackle since his rookie campaign. He played in 12 contests last year, allowing five sacks and 34 pressures in 269 pass-blocking snaps, according to PFF.
Arizona will open training camp July 22 and face off against the Los Angeles Chargers in its season opener Sept. 13.
