As the NFL season winds down, the stakes aren’t just high for teams but for players’ wallets too. A handful of stars have performance bonuses within reach, making the last two weeks of regular-season action even more intriguing.
Let’s break down the players who could turn a strong finish- or a deep playoff run- into major cash.
Geno Smith: $6 Million Potential Payday
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith stands to gain the most. He needs 386 more passing yards to surpass his career-high 4,282 yards, which would earn him a $2 million bonus. If Smith maintains a completion percentage of 69.75% or higher, he’ll bank another $2 million. Currently, at 70.1%, he’s just barely in the clear.
If the Seahawks secure a playoff spot or reach 10 wins, Smith earns another $2 million, making his final two weeks critical for both Seattle and his bank account.
Baker Mayfield: On Track For $2.5 Million
After signing a massive deal with the Buccaneers, Baker Mayfield is within reach of some lucrative bonuses. He can earn $500,000 each if he finishes in the NFL’s top 10- or NFC’s top five- in passing yards, completion percentage, yards per attempt, touchdown passes, and passer rating. Currently, he’s on track to hit all five categories, totaling $2.5 million.
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The playoffs offer Mayfield even more: $500,000 per win before the Super Bowl, with another $2.5 million if Tampa Bay wins it all.
Mike Evans: $666,000 For Touchdowns
Mayfield’s top target, Mike Evans, can earn $666,000 if he finishes in the NFL’s top 10 for receiving touchdowns. With nine scores, Evans is currently tied for sixth. However, injuries earlier in the season likely rule out bonuses for receptions or receiving yards, where he’s ranked 45th and 32nd, respectively.
Also Read: What Is QBR In The NFL? Understanding Everything About Advanced League Stats
DeAndre Hopkins: $1 Million Target
Chiefs wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has multiple bonuses within reach. With 56 receptions and 610 receiving yards, he’s just nine catches and 140 yards short of two $250,000 bonuses. A sixth touchdown catch would add $500,000, making a productive final game worth $1 million total.
Courtland Sutton: $500,000 On The Line
Denver Broncos receiver Courtland Sutton has already earned $1 million in bonuses for surpassing 928 receiving yards. If he reaches 1,065 yards, he’ll pocket an additional $500,000.
Sticking with WRs, Courtland Sutton is looking to collect a check for $500k if he gets:
— SportsBetLion (@SportsTokUS) December 30, 2024
82 receiving yards•
Broncos are going up against the Chiefs which have already locked up the one seed and announced they will be resting key starters pic.twitter.com/vrmhJuhEB3
EDGE Rushers: Sacks Equal Stacks
Philadelphia’s Josh Sweat, Detroit’s Za’Darius Smith, and Buffalo’s Von Miller all have sack-related incentives.
- Josh Sweat needs two more sacks to secure $250,000, but reaching 12 sacks would net him $2 million.
- Za’Darius Smith can earn $250,000 if he gets two more sacks.
- Von Miller already earned $2.5 million for four sacks. Two more would add $1.5 million.
Running Back Bonuses: Dobbins And Pollard
- J.K. Dobbins of the Chargers could earn $150,000 if he gains 134 rushing yards in his final games. If he reaches 1,050 yards, he adds another $150,000.
- Tony Pollard of the Titans can pocket $250,000 by rushing for 118 more yards and $200,000 for scoring two more touchdowns. An AFC Pro Bowl selection would bring in $100,000.
Award And Postseason Windfalls
Saquon Barkley has already earned $500,000 in bonuses. Leading the NFL in rushing could bring another $750,000 if he’s named All-Pro and makes the Pro Bowl. A Super Bowl win would add $250,000 more.
Patrick Mahomes could see his 2025 salary jump by $1.25 million if he plays 50% of the snaps in a Chiefs Super Bowl win.
Josh Allen has $3.5 million in bonuses tied to postseason success. Playing 60% of snaps in a Bills AFC title win earns $1 million, with $2 million more for a Super Bowl win. Winning MVP would add $1.5 million.
Jared Goff could increase his 2028 salary by $1 million if he plays 50% of the Lions’ snaps in a Super Bowl victory.
