From USC to 8 Figures: Makai Lemon Gets Massive Signing Bonus From 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. View this post on Instagram A post shared by LA Sports Report (@lasportsreport) 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.