We are at the point of the season where players are playing for personal reasons. Yes, football is the ultimate team sport, but football contracts are often the most complex. While MLB and NBA contracts are all guaranteed, NFL deals have several bonuses tied to team and/or individual performance.
Last week, Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz had a big day. Ertz caught six passes for 72 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner, but it was also a financial success for the 12-year veteran. Ertz’s performance triggered three bonuses in his contract:
- His sixth TD catch of the season triggered a $250,000 bonus.
- Ertz earned another $250,000 by going over 60 catches this season.
- Ertz earned yet another $250,000 by going over 600 yards receiving.
Yes, Ertz received $750K worth of bonuses for his performance. It’s tough for anyone to get much better than that.
Also, wide receiver Terry McLaurin earned $250K on Thursday when he was named to the Pro Bowl.
As for Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Cowboys, these Commanders could earn some extra cash. And yes, Ertz can bring in even more money. Contract details are courtesy of Spotrac.
Zach Ertz
- If Ertz catches nine passes, he would reach 70 on the season, earning him another $250K.
- If Ertz finishes with 90 receiving yards, he would have 700 on the season, earning another $250K.
- If Ertz catches two touchdowns, that would give him eight, earning him yet another $250K.
Dante Fowler Jr.
- If Fowler has a half-sack against the Cowboys, it would give him 11 for the season, triggering a $1.5 million bonus. Fowler has collected $1.125 million of the bonus.
Jeremy Chinn
- If Chinn has two sacks, it would give him three on the season, triggering a $250K bonus.
- If Chinn has two interceptions, it would give him three on the season, triggering a $250K bonus.
Frankie Luvu
- If Luvu gets two sacks Sunday, it would give 10 for the season, triggering a $975K bonus. He has already collected $650K of the bonus for reaching eight sacks.
We named the incentives that could be reached on Sunday. Most are attainable, especially if you’re Ertz, Luvu, or Fowler.