Jets LB Jamien Sherwood leads NFL with $1.1M in performance-based pay

Field Level Media|published: 03/12/2025, 2:08pm EDT

Oct 27, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood (44) reacts after breaking up a pass against the New England Patriots during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood is pocketing an additional $1.09 million, leading the league in performance-based pay for the 2024 season.

The league announced the distribution of $452 million on Wednesday under the collectively bargained benefit for players who outperformed their salary level based on their playing time. Players have received nearly $2.8 billion since the program's inception in 2002.

The bonus more than doubles the 2024 salary for Sherwood, a 2021 fifth-round draft pick who participated in 93 percent of the Jets' defensive snaps last season.

Sherwood, 25, played 1,178 total snaps (including special teams) and finished with 158 tackles (league-high 98 solo stops) and two sacks in 17 games (16 starts).

The news continues a great week for Sherwood, who reportedly agreed to a three-year, $45 million extension with the Jets on Monday.

Four other players received more than $1 million in performance-based pay: Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones ($1.06 million), Panthers cornerback Michael Jackson ($1.035M), Ravens offensive lineman Daniel Faalele ($1.02M) and Bears offensive lineman Matt Pryor ($1.02M).

Quarterback Brock Purdy of the 49ers earned the most among NFL skill players, with the former "Mr. Irrelevant" taking home an extra $857,842.

--Field Level Media