An annual survey conducted by the National Football League shows that the average salary of an N.F.L. player last season was $90,102, with quarterbacks averaging the highest, $160,037.

In 1980, the average player's salary was $78,657, 14.5 percent under the 1981 figure.

The survey, conducted for the fifth straight year, shows average salaries for eight positions: quarterback, running back, receiver, offensive lineman, defensive lineman, linebacker, defensive back and kicker.

Next in average salary were running backs, $94,948; defensive linemen, $92,996; receivers, $85,873; offensive linemen, $85,543; linebackers, $85,205; defensive backs, $79,581, and kickers, $65,779.