5. Todd Carney – Cronulla Sharks

$750,000 until 2018

Like Josh Dugan earlier in the countdown to number one, Cronulla Sharks star Todd Carney has seen the highest of highs and the lowest of lows in his career.

After seemingly starring down career oblivion after having his contract torn up by the Canberra Raiders, an enforced sabbatical to Northern Queensland saw Carney return to the NRL with the Sydney Roosters, where he went on to win the Dally M medal.

Now as part of the Cronulla Sharks, Carney continues to show his match-winning qualities, often looking to set up teammates rather than take on the line himself, which can make him multidimensional rather than easier to read in defence.

However, when Carney is on he can win a game for his side almost single-handily, ensuring why he is one of the highest paid stars in the NRL.