How Much Do NFL Mascots Make?

While football odds can change from game to game based on performance and other factors, the odds of becoming an NFL mascot are extraordinarily low compared to the world population. 

Think about it: Earth has nearly eight billion people, and there are just 32 NFL teams. However, only 27 of them have mascots. Thus, approximately 0.000000003375% of the world’s population is currently the mascot for an NFL team. 

Coach Cowher and The NFL Today crew relived that time the Panthers Mascot DOWNED A LIVE PUNT 🤣

Watch the full video on YouTube 📺 pic.twitter.com/w58OlQuVMm

— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) August 1, 2024

With so few jobs available, how much do the people taking this role make? 

That’s what I want to explore below. 

How Much Do NFL Mascots Make?

The average NFL mascot makes about $57,000 per year, but some, like the Dallas Cowboys’ Rowdy and the New England Patriots’ Pat Patriot, make more, at $65,000 per year. Just behind them is the San Francisco 49ers’ mascot, Sourdough Sam, who makes $60,000 per year.

As mentioned, not every team has a mascot, though. Those without one include the New York Jets, Las Vegas Raiders, Green Bay Packers, Washington Commanders, and New York Giants. 

Who Was the First NFL Mascot?

There’s surprisingly little information regarding the oldest mascot. 

The Kansas City Chiefs used a painted horse named “Warpaint” for many decades, the first horse being used in the 1950s. However, the tradition of using the horse was retired in 2021. In all, three different horses have been used as Warpaint.