The Arizona Cardinals face significant contract extensions as key players like tight end Trey McBride and cornerback Garrett Williams head into negotiations. With the market for wide receivers escalating, highlighted by Ja'Marr Chase's staggering four-year, $161 million deal, the Cardinals could anticipate hefty extensions in the coming years, especially for players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Garrett Williams. Harrison could command a contract similar to those of top receivers if he posts impressive seasons, while Williams is poised for his own lucrative extension next offseason. The franchise's challenge will be balancing these financial commitments while maintaining roster strength.

The Arizona Cardinals are benefiting from a performance-based pay system that rewards players based on their contributions on the field. Cornerback Star Thomas V leads the team with a substantial bonus of $797,669.80, attributed to his 77.3% snap count last season. Despite none of their players breaking into the NFL's top 25 for performance pay, several Cardinals enjoyed significant payouts. The team's total performance-based pay this year amounted to $14.128 million, part of a broader league pool of $452.096 million since the program's inception in 2002.

Notably, players with lower salaries and higher playing time percentages gleaned the most from this system. Alongside Thomas, wide receiver Michael Wilson and cornerback Garrett Williams also received hefty bonuses, highlighting the importance of snap counts in determining eligibility for these payouts. The performance pay structure underscores the value placed on player contributions that go beyond just base salaries, providing motivation for athletes to perform at their best week after week.

The Arizona Cardinals are gaining national attention, with several players recognized in Pro Football Focus's annual 101 players list for their strong performances in the 2024 season. Running back James Conner ranked #81, cornerback Garrett Williams came in at #73, while tight end Trey McBride solidified his place as a top-50 player at #42, trailing only stars Brock Bowers and George Kittle.

However, one significant player missed the cut: safety Budda Baker. Despite a stellar season, marked by a second-place finish in total tackles (164) and a solid PFF grade of 77.8, he was overlooked for recognition alongside notable safeties such as Jessie Bates III and Derwin James. Baker’s impressive play and his recent three-year, $54 million contract extension underscore his importance to the Cardinals, especially as a defensive leader.

PFF's NFL Week 17 Team of the Week has been unveiled, showcasing standout players based on performance grades and snap counts. The selections highlight those who not only excelled in their individual performances but also demonstrated consistency over a significant number of plays. The criteria emphasize the importance of maintaining high performance levels, which is crucial in the competitive landscape of the NFL.

Leading the offensive lineup is quarterback Joe Burrow from the Cincinnati Bengals, who delivered an outstanding performance against the Denver Broncos, completing 39 of 49 passes for 412 yards. His efforts were pivotal in keeping the Bengals' playoff hopes alive. Joining him in the offensive spotlight are notable players like Derrick Henry from the Baltimore Ravens and rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers from the New York Giants, who had a remarkable game against the Indianapolis Colts.

On the defensive side, edge rusher Nolan Smith of the Philadelphia Eagles made a significant impact against the Dallas Cowboys, achieving an impressive run-defense grade. His ability to disrupt plays was complemented by strong performances from other defensive players, including Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns and John Franklin-Myers of the Denver Broncos. The special teams also made their mark with standout players like kicker Cam Little from the Jacksonville Jaguars.

This week's selections demonstrate the depth of talent across the league, with players rising to the occasion in critical moments as the season heads into its final stretch.

The Los Angeles Rams secured a hard-fought 13-9 victory against the Arizona Cardinals, maintaining their lead in the NFC West and extending their winning streak to five games. The game was marked by a pivotal moment with just 37 seconds left on the clock when Rams cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon intercepted a deflected pass in the end zone, effectively sealing the win for Los Angeles. Throughout the match, the Rams' defense played a crucial role, compensating for an offense that struggled to establish any rhythm.

Puka Nacua emerged as a standout player, accumulating 129 receiving yards, while Kyren Williams contributed the Rams' sole touchdown. Despite the offensive challenges, the team's defensive effort was instrumental in grinding out the victory, keeping them in a strong position as the regular season approaches its conclusion.

Pro Football Focus (PFF) analysts were on hand to grade players in real time, with detailed evaluations and data expected to be released the following day. Initial assessments highlighted the top performers, including cornerback Garrett Williams from the Cardinals, who excelled in coverage despite his team's loss. Williams was targeted five times but allowed only one reception for 15 yards, showcasing his defensive prowess.