New York Jets Guard Among Top Players in Received Performance-Based Pay

John Simpson hasn't played a down of football with the New York Jets, but his play last season made him well worth the extra cash spent.

Oct 15, 2023; London, United Kingdom; Baltimore Ravens guard John Simpson (left) and Tennessee / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

John Simpson never really found a home with the Las Vegas Raiders after being drafted in the fourth-round. He found one with the Baltimore Ravens and revitalized his NFL career.

Now as a member of the New York Jets, Simpson's 2023 season can be seen in even greater light.

Oct 15, 2023; London, United Kingdom; Baltimore Ravens guard John Simpson (left) and Tennessee / Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Before last season, Simpson signed a one-year deal with Baltimore for over $1 million. Now that the year is over, and after he signed a two-year deal with the Jets, it turns out he made even more than his original base salary.

Simpson earned $974,613 in performance-based pay for the Ravens last year - most in the NFL.

For the second time in his career, Simpson started all 17 games at left guard and recorded an above-average 56.1 Pro Football Focus grade. As a strong run blocker, the Clemson product provides plenty of depth and leadership to a Jets team that went through 13 different offensive linemen and 13 different combinations last season.

Simpson signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the Jets during the first day of free agency, and expects to be a major contributor on an improved offense that added Tyron Smith, Mike Williams, and others into the fold.

If he plays as he did during last season that earned him plenty of bonus money, the Jets offensive line will be far better than last year.