Why Is Chiefs Star DT Chris Jones Playing In Season Finale Despite Chiefs Clinching Playoff Berth?

The culmination of the NFL regular season is drawing near this Sunday, following 19 weeks of intense confrontations. Numerous squads, including the 2023 Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, have secured spots in the playoffs. These teams now have their sights set on maintaining player fitness and gearing up for the postseason, where every game is of utmost importance. Nevertheless, the Chiefs are still deploying their defensive talisman, which is unexpected.

It is reported that Jones, who ended his holdout and clinched a new single-year contract with the Chiefs, has increased incentive to continue his regular season role. In addition to the guaranteed $1 million for a 35% playtime, Jones is expected to pocket an extra $1.25 million if he records ten sacks in the season. If he adds five more sacks to his tally, he will further augment his earnings by $500,000. Currently, Jones finds himself tied at the league's 20th place, with 9.5 sacks, a heartbeat away from his ten sacks monetary incentive. The $1.25 million bonus is within his grasp, merely half a sack away to take down the Charger quarterback Easton Stick.

Despite the incentive, his contract remains similar to his previous term, a $19.5 million base value, only the incentives offering an opportunity for increased earnings.

Despite only requiring half a sack to earn the high-stake reward, Jones sat out practice due to groin spasms. Although Head Coach Andy Reid underplayed its seriousness, his gameplay this Sunday is uncertain. The positioning is relatively safe within NFL context, but Jones could encounter injury risks before the crucial postseason games.

The Seahawks, with Jones, are one of the 11 teams contending for the remaining five playoff berths. His impressive $105 million deal has been instrumental to achieving one more victory than in 2022. His contract guarantees a base salary of $1.2 million. If Seattle secures ten wins or enters the playoffs with 80 snaps from Smith, he will receive an additional $2 million.

Similarly, Mayfield, now with Tampa Bay, hopes to clinch a $1 million incentive if the Buccaneers secure their divisional titles. With a tie-game against the New Orleans Saints, they hope to beat the Carolina Panthers in the final game of the regular season.

Unlike the others, the circumstances of incentives are more multifaceted for the Titans WR. He needs 39 more yards, seven receptions, and two touchdowns to secure a $750k bonus. The only opportunity left is the Titans' final faceoff against the Jaguars.

As the postseason fast approaches, the excitement is peaking. NFL players appear more determined than ever to make the most of their contracts and keep focus on the upcoming postseason.