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From USC to 8 Figures: Makai Lemon Gets Massive Signing Bonus From Eagles
TL;DR
Makai Lemon, former USC standout, has signed a four-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, becoming the first first-round pick to secure an eight-digit signing bonus of $11.5 million.
Key points
- Makai Lemon signed with the Philadelphia Eagles
- He received an $11.5 million signing bonus
- Lemon's contract totals $20.8 million over four years
- He was the 20th overall pick in the draft
- Lemon is a former standout at USC
Mentioned in this story
NFLUSC
Makai LemonPhiladelphia Eagles
Former USC standout Makai Lemon has officially become the first first-round pick to sign his contract, securing an eight-digit signing bonus before he ever plays a down in the NFL.
Lemon, who was chosen by the Philadelphia Eagles, signed a four-year fully guaranteed deal, as reported by Ian Rapaport of NFL Network.
Apr 22, 2026; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Southern California Trojans receiver Makai Lemon during the NFL Draft prospects clinic at Hazelwood Green Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
That deal, the standard $20.8 million for a player drafted 20th overall, includes a huge signing bonus: $11.5 million.
It also includes an option for a potential fifth year.
What is Makai Lemon’s legacy as a USC Trojan?
Lemon played three years for the Trojans, with his junior season being one fans won’t soon forget.
Lemon was a consensus All-American wide receiver and won the Biletnikoff Award as the top receiver in college football.
In 12 games in 2025, he had 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, an average of just under 100 yards and a score per game.
If you add in his two rushing touchdowns, he found the end zone 13 times in 12 games.
Q&A
What is the signing bonus amount for Makai Lemon with the Eagles?
Makai Lemon received a signing bonus of $11.5 million.
How much is Makai Lemon's total contract value with the Philadelphia Eagles?
Lemon's contract is valued at $20.8 million over four years.
Who was the first first-round pick to sign their contract in the 2026 NFL Draft?
Makai Lemon is the first first-round pick to sign his contract in the 2026 NFL Draft.
