NFL Week 18 player incentives: Big dawgs chase bigger numbers ft. Mike Evans, Baker Mayfield
The final week of the NFL season is more than just about playoff spots and bragging rights—it’s also about cold, hard cash. For some of the league’s biggest names, hitting a few extra numbers could mean cashing in checks so fat they’d make even Scrooge McDuck jealous.
From record-setting performances to eye-popping bonuses, players have plenty to play for. Let’s break it all down, starting with the high-stakes stories for Mike Evans and Baker Mayfield.
From record-setting performances to eye-popping bonuses, players have plenty to play for. Let’s break it all down, starting with the high-stakes stories for Mike Evans and Baker Mayfield.
Mike EvansMike Evans has built a career on consistency, but Sunday could be the cherry on top. With 65 catches, 915 yards, and 11 touchdowns so far, Evans needs five more catches and 85 yards to unlock a $3 million bonus. That performance would also extend his streak of 1,000-yard receiving seasons to 11, tying the Jerry Rice for the most consecutive seasons in NFL history.
No pressure, right?
The New Orleans Saints’ secondary will have their hands full as Evans chases both money and legacy. His yardage prop sits at a season-high 97.5, which reflects the stakes. But Evans has been averaging 70 yards per game, so buckle up—this one could go down to the wire.
Baker MayfieldFor Baker Mayfield, Week 18 isn’t just about a playoff berth—it’s about padding his wallet. The Buccaneers quarterback has a chance to rake in up to $5 million in incentives if all goes his way.
Here’s the breakdown:
- $500K if Tampa Bay beats the Saints and makes the playoffs.
- Another $500K for every postseason round they advance through.
- $2.5 million up for grabs if Mayfield finishes in the top 10 for stats like passer rating, touchdowns, or completion percentage.
Geno SmithGeno Smith’s story is one of redemption—and this season, it’s paying off. The Seahawks QB is 186 passing yards shy of hitting a $2 million bonus. With a current completion percentage of 70.2%, Smith also stands to earn another $2 million if he keeps it above 69.755%. A win over the Rams would seal an additional $2 million, bringing his total potential earnings to $6 million.
Kyler MurrayThe Cardinals’ Kyler Murray has had a frustrating season, but Week 18 could offer a silver lining. With 50 rushing yards and one touchdown, Murray unlocks a $750,000 bonus. Conveniently, his best rushing performance this year came against the same opponent he faces Sunday—the 49ers. If there’s ever been a week to put on the jets, it’s this one.
DeAndre HopkinsIt’s been a bumpy year for DeAndre Hopkins, splitting time between Tennessee and Kansas City. But one thing is clear: He’s one touchdown away from pocketing $500,000. Whether Kansas City lets him play remains to be seen, but if he suits up, Hopkins has every reason to make his presence felt.
Courtland SuttonSutton needs 82 receiving yards to secure a $500K bonus. While three touchdowns would net him another $200K, that milestone seems less likely given his past performances.
J.K. DobbinsDobbins is 58 rushing yards shy of hitting 900 yards for the season, which would earn him a $150K bonus.
Tony PollardPollard needs 83 rushing yards to claim a $250K bonus. Scoring two rushing touchdowns would add an extra $200K to his earnings, though that will be a tougher ask.
Zach ErtzErtz is looking at three milestones:
- Nine catches for a $250K bonus.
- 90 receiving yards for another $250K bonus.
- Two touchdowns for a final $250K payout.
TL;DR: Money Talks in Week 18As Rick Ross once said, “Money is the motivation.” And in the NFL, it’s the difference between a good season and a great one. For guys like Evans and Mayfield, the stakes are as high as the payouts. Whether it’s touchdowns, yards, or wins, one thing is certain—Week 18 is going to be a wild ride.
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