Ellis Genge is now one of England's highest-paid players after signing with hometown club

The deal, which comes with a substantial pay rise, establishes Genge as one of the top earners in the Premiership.

The 29-year-old, a product of the Bears' academy, was instrumental in Bristol's late-season surge, where they won six of their last seven matches, narrowly missing out on the play-offs by just two points.

"Hopefully it's not the end, a long contract, so obviously I feel at home now," Genge told BBC Radio Bristol. "To be honest I didn't realise how important it was to me."

Genge rejoined his hometown club in 2022 after six years with Leicester Tigers, where he captained the team to a Premiership title in his final season.

"For me to leave Leicester after winning the Prem and then coming straight here, it was a big ask," Genge said. "My family said, 'what are you doing?', but I knew it was the right decision.

"The training ground, compared to 90% of the other clubs, is above and beyond. That obviously is a big pull, going somewhere at work every day which you think this is wild.

"It was an easy one for me. I'm from here and when I put a Bristol shirt on, it actually means something to me. I probably am on par with how passionate I am about playing for England as I am for playing for Bristol."

Which players are not being rewarded for their consistent performances? Which Englishmen are receiving eyebrow-raising amounts of money each season? And who, rightly or wrongly, is being paid the most?

Curry, the dynamic flanker of Sale Sharks, commands a £430,000 salary. Known for his relentless work rate and uncompromising physicality, Curry epitomizes the modern openside flanker.

A stalwart in both club and international arenas, his defensive prowess and breakdown expertise make him a nightmare for opponents.

Smith, the prodigious talent of Harlequins, secures a £460,000 deal. With his innate flair and playmaking abilities, Smith orchestrates the Quins' attacking prowess with finesse.

A rising star in English rugby, his vision and composure belie his youth, earning him accolades as one of the game's brightest prospects.

#3. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears) £550,000

Genge, the formidable prop of Bristol Bears, reportedly commands a £550,000 salary. Renowned for his explosive power and relentless aggression, Genge dominates the scrum with unmatched ferocity.

A cornerstone of Bristol's forward pack, his tenacity and grit inspire teammates and intimidate opponents alike. Off the field, Genge is an advocate for diversity and inclusion, using his platform to drive positive change in rugby and society.

#2. George Ford (Sale Sharks) - £550,000

Ford, orchestrator extraordinaire at Sale Sharks, boasts a £550,000 contract. With a keen eye for tactical play and precision kicking, Ford's rugby IQ is unparalleled.

A seasoned England international, he guides his team with finesse, often turning the tide in crucial moments. Beyond the pitch, Ford's humility and dedication set an inspiring example for aspiring athletes.

#1. Maro Itoje (Saracens) - £800,000

Itoje, the towering force of Saracens, commands respect with his £800,000 deal. Renowned for his agility and leadership, Itoje's impact transcends mere statistics.

A mainstay of the England squad, his versatility and unmatched work ethic make him a linchpin of the team's success. Off the field, he champions various causes, epitomising the modern athlete as a voice for social change.