AJ Cole has solidified his status as one of the NFL’s elite punters, recently signing a contract that makes him the highest-paid player at his position. Since joining the Las Vegas Raiders, Cole has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and reliability.

His new contract not only reflects his individual achievements but also signals the Raiders' commitment to maintaining a strong special teams unit. Cole's performance has been critical for the Raiders, particularly in crucial game moments where field position can dictate outcomes.

A.J. Cole of the Las Vegas Raiders has secured a significant contract extension, making him the highest-paid punter in the NFL. The four-year extension, worth $15.8 million with $11 million guaranteed, will keep Cole with the Raiders until 2029. Previously, he had one year left on his existing contract, which was set to pay him $3.3 million in 2025. Cole, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, expressed his excitement about the deal on social media.

The Las Vegas Raiders have secured two-time All-Pro punter AJ Cole with a lucrative four-year, $15.8 million contract extension, solidifying his position as the highest-paid punter in the NFL. With $11 million guaranteed, this deal extends Cole's tenure with the team for another five seasons, following a remarkable performance in 2023 where he averaged 50.8 yards per punt, earning his second first-team All-Pro selection.

Cole, 29, originally signed a four-year, $12 million deal in 2021 and has consistently ranked among the top punters, finishing in the top five for yards per punt over the past four seasons, including a league-leading average of 50 yards per attempt in 2021. His skills in placing 27 of his punts inside the 20-yard line during the last season highlight his pivotal role in the Raiders' special teams.

The Las Vegas Raiders have solidified AJ Cole's position as a top-tier punter with a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $15.8 million, making him the highest-paid punter in the NFL. This contract, which includes $11 million in guaranteed money, reflects the team's confidence in his performance over the past six seasons.

Cole's statistics are impressive, averaging 48.6 yards per punt throughout his career. He also showcased his exceptional talent in the 2023 season, achieving a career-long punt of 83 yards and setting an NFL record with an astounding average of 63.6 yards per punt in a single game. As a fantasy player, Cole’s reliability can add significant value to teams looking for special teams points.

PFF's NFL Week 17 Team of the Week has been unveiled, showcasing standout players based on performance grades and snap counts. The selections highlight those who not only excelled in their individual performances but also demonstrated consistency over a significant number of plays. The criteria emphasize the importance of maintaining high performance levels, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Leading the offensive lineup is quarterback Joe Burrow from the Cincinnati Bengals, who delivered an outstanding performance against the Denver Broncos, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards. His efforts were pivotal in keeping the Bengals' playoff hopes alive. Joining him in the offensive spotlight are notable players like Derrick Henry from the Baltimore Ravens and rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers from the New York Giants, who had a remarkable game against the Indianapolis Colts.

On the defensive side, edge rusher Nolan Smith of the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant impact against the Dallas Cowboys, achieving an impressive run-defense grade. His ability to disrupt plays was complemented by strong performances from other defensive players, including Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns and John Franklin-Myers of the Denver Broncos. The special teams also made their mark with standout players like kicker Cam Little from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

This week's selections demonstrate the depth of talent across the league, with players rising to the occasion in critical moments as the season heads into its final stretch.