The first prospect selected by the New England Patriots in the 2022 NFL Draft has been given a rookie contract. Sam Roberts, a sixth-round pick who was first reported by Aaron Wilson of the Pro Football Network, has agreed to a four-year agreement worth a total of $3.83 million.
After a six-year tenure at Northwest Missouri State, Roberts, 24, moved to New England. During his time as a Bearcat, he played in 50 games and racked up 184 tackles, 18.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Roberts was honored as the MIAA Defensive Player of the Year in 2021 as a super senior. Additionally, he received the Cliff Harris Award, which is awarded each year to the top non-Division I defender.
Roberts was selected by the Patriots in the late rounds with the 200th overall choice after his accomplishments persuaded them to do so. He has now signed his rookie contract, becoming the first of New England’s ten drafted players.
In general, the terms of the four-year agreement are easy to understand. It includes a prorated annual signing bonus of $42,869 and non-guaranteed wages of $705,000 in 2022, $870,000 in 2023, $985,000 in 2024, and $1.1 million in 2025.
Only Roberts’ signing bonus proration will immediately count against the Patriots’ salary limit since Roberts’ contract does not qualify for the NFL’s Top-51 rule, which is in effect during the offseason.
If Roberts is added to the 53-man roster for the start of the regular season and the end of Top-51, the $705,000 salary will only be charged to the team’s books. However, based on his draft standing and New England’s strong defensive line, it seems unlikely that he will advance that far.
How Much Does Sam Roberts Make?
Sam Roberts makes an average of $957,869 per year. In 2022, Roberts’ base salary will be $705,000 and his signing bonus will be $171,476. His cap hit will be $747,869