NFL pays underrated Panthers star performance-based bonus after breakout season

When the Carolina Panthers traded a backup linebacker for Mike Jackson, they probably didn't necessarily envision what was to come. Jackson eventually became the second cornerback behind Jaycee Horn and was, at least by some metrics (PFF rating, for example), as good or better than Horn.

It resulted in a two-year, $14.5 million deal to return to Carolina. His on-field performance also resulted in a nice bonus directly from the NFL. Every year, players get paid based on performance, and Jackson earned a substantial payday.

The NFL announced their top 25 performance-based payouts, with #Jets LB Jamien Sherwood leading the way.

Performance-based pay is a system the league has in place for players for players with high snap counts and low salaries. pic.twitter.com/h85KPp9ajy
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) March 12, 2025

The NFL has this player performance program to give players a bonus if they have high snap counts and low salaries. In essence, it's when an unheralded player steps up and plays way more than expected but isn't really compensated as much for it due to a small contract. The league addresses the disparity.

Jackson, who was one of the most consistent and healthy defenders the Panthers had, ended up being a crucial part of the secondary, which was wholly unexpected. Originally brought in as the third or worse cornerback on a roughly $3 million contract, Jackson far exceeded expectations.

Dec 1, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) catches the ball as Carolina Panthers cornerback Michael Jackson (2) defends in overtime at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

In fact, one could argue that he exceeded expectations more than all but two NFL players. The league paid out just two underrated stars more than Jackson, who earned $1.035 million. Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones earned $1.06 million, and New York Jets linebacker Jamien Sherwood got paid the most: $1.092 million.

Jackson essentially made a third of his contractual salary just because of how well he played. He will not really be up for the same performance-based bonus now that he's on a $7.25 million salary for the next two seasons.

- Enjoy more free Panthers coverage with Carolina Panthers on SI -

Cowboys steal explosive ST free agent target for the Panthers

Jaycee Horn’s huge contract keeps getting worse for Panthers

Panthers 3-round mock draft puts Bryce Young’s needs first

Panthers’ huge iDL addition gets maligned by NFL analyst