Courtland Sutton has a significant incentive to deliver a standout performance in the Denver Broncos’ regular-season finale. The star wide receiver is just 82 receiving yards away from unlocking a $2 million contract bonus, adding extra stakes to Sunday’s Week 18 showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado.
Sutton’s lucrative bonus stems from a restructured offseason deal that introduced performance-based incentives. These milestones, designed to reward on-field success, have become a talking point among fans as the Broncos prepare for their most crucial game of the year.
One factor working in Sutton’s favor is the Chiefs’ decision to rest their key starters. With a 15-1 record and the AFC’s No. 1 seed already secured, Kansas City has little reason to risk injuries to star players in a game that won’t affect their postseason standing. This could provide Sutton with more opportunities against a less formidable Kansas City defense.
Adding to Sutton’s hopes is Broncos head coach Sean Payton’s track record of supporting players in reaching contract incentives. During his tenure with the New Orleans Saints, Payton notably ensured wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders earned a $500,000 bonus in the 2020 season finale.
Sanders needed eight catches against the Carolina Panthers to trigger the incentive, and Payton prioritized his target count, helping Sanders rack up a team-high nine receptions in a lopsided 33-7 victory. Sanders’ exuberant celebration after securing the milestone became a memorable moment of the season.
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While the Broncos’ primary objective on Sunday is securing a win to lock in their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl triumph in 2015, there’s room for individual achievements like Sutton’s to be part of the game plan.
If Denver builds a comfortable lead against Kansas City’s second-string players, Payton may well call a few extra plays in Sutton’s favor, aiming to help the receiver hit his bonus milestone.
Sutton has been a consistent contributor for the Broncos this season, showcasing his ability to deliver in clutch moments.
With the team vying for postseason success and Sutton chasing his performance bonus, Sunday’s game has the potential to be a win-win for both player and franchise. Fans will be watching closely to see if Sutton can hit the 82-yard mark and cash in on the $2 million prize.
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