Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton made a significant impact in a playoff-clinching game against the Kansas City Chiefs, completing the game with five receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown. The performance allowed Sutton to trigger a $500,000 bonus by surpassing 1,065 receiving yards for the season, finishing with a total of 1,081 yards. Despite the Chiefs resting key players, Sutton emphasized the importance of winning, stating, 'We have to win this game.' The Broncos will face the Buffalo Bills in the playoffs next.
In other league news, several players capitalized on contract incentives in their final games. Seattle Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith earned $6 million in escalators, while Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller secured an additional $1.5 million after reaching six sacks. New York Jets guard John Simpson earned $3 million for playing over 90% of offensive snaps, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans tied a record for consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons.