Broncos Issue Hefty 6-Figure Bonus for Courtland Sutton As Sean Payton Responds to Andy Reid Benching Superstars

Courtland Sutton is not just chasing yards in Week 18. He’s chasing half a million dollars. Yep, you heard that right. But how’s he just 82 yards away from a hefty bonus? Let’s find out.

Sutton’s incentive stems from his summer contract restructuring. The restructuring rewards milestone achievements. He’s already pocketed $1 million for crossing 500 and 750 receiving yards this season. Sitting at 983 yards now, he’s aiming to crack the 1,065-yard mark to bank another $500,000. And with the Chiefs resting key players, this bonus seems within arm’s reach.

Sean Payton has a history of ensuring his players hit their marks. NFL insider Peter Schrager recalled how Payton’s play-calling helped Emmanuel Sanders secure a similar $500,000 bonus in 2021. Expect a similar approach on Sunday, as Payton remains laser-focused on maximizing team performance and player rewards.

Courtland Sutton is averaging 71.5 yards over the last four games. And he’s well-poised to deliver. The Broncos’ playoff hopes hinge on beating Kansas City, which adds another layer of urgency to Sutton’s mission. And if he somehow manages to score three receiving touchdowns and ensure a win, he’ll be another two hundred thousand richer. Since that’d complete another milestone for him (sealing a playoff seat for the team and completing 10 receiving TDs).

The Chiefs are locked into the AFC’s top seed. And they will rest many starters, giving Sutton an ideal opportunity. Payton’s game plan will likely leverage this to the fullest, setting the stage for a potential career highlight.

Sean Payton’s calm amid Chiefs’ controversial roster decisions

While Andy Reid’s decision to bench superstars for this game raised eyebrows, Sean Payton couldn’t care less. “We can’t control any of that. And at the beginning of the week, that’s the message,” Payton told reporters. “You go 15-1, you do what’s best for your team… one of the things I think you learn from experience is the things that you can control on your team being ready. That’s what our focus has been on.”

The Broncos must win to ensure a playoff spot, which might be their first since 2015. And a loss would require help from other teams. With Kansas City’s top 11 players sidelined, the task appears easier, but Payton’s team isn’t letting their guard down. “We don’t care about none of the other stuff,” Sutton said. “Whoever has on shoulder pass and is wearing red, white, and yellow, we have to beat them boys… The Broncos have to show up Sunday and win the game.”

Historically, Denver’s matchups with Kansas City have been one-sided. The Chiefs have won 17 of the last 18 meetings. However, the Broncos did manage to beat them in Week 8, holding Kansas City to its second-lowest score since Patrick Mahomes became the starter. And with key players missing, they’ve got another shot at replicating that result. Payton’s ability to rally his team in crucial moments will be pivotal.

“But look, they played this same game a year ago, beat the Chargers,” Payton said, emphasizing the Broncos’ need for focus. “So we’ve got to be ready to focus on the Denver Broncos.” Players like Sutton and quarterback Bo Nix echoed these sentiments, highlighting a team-first mindset.

Sunday’s game will define the Broncos’ season and Courtland Sutton’s financial year. Whether he reaches his 82-yard goal or not, Denver’s approach under Payton is all about maximizing opportunities. With playoff dreams and individual incentives on the line, Week 18 promises high drama in Mile High.