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.

In a surprising turn of events during the San Francisco 49ers and Arizona Cardinals season finale, both teams experienced a dramatic ejection as 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings and Cardinals cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting were thrown out after a scuffle. This incident marked a chaotic end to what was already a meaningless game for both squads, having been eliminated from the playoffs prior.

The altercation began when Jennings engaged in a physical block on Murphy-Bunting during a run play. Following the whistle, both players continued to wrestle, leading to their ejection after officials intervened. Jennings' ejection was particularly disappointing as he was just 25 yards away from achieving his first career 1,000-yard receiving season.

Despite the ejection, Jennings remained upbeat as he exited the field, showing appreciation to the fans. The game concluded with the Cardinals securing a 47-24 victory, capping off a tumultuous season for both teams.

D.J. Reed of the New York Jets has achieved the highest advanced coverage grade in the NFL through Week 8 of the 2024 season, showcasing his exceptional performance on the field.

The advanced coverage grade, which utilizes machine learning to evaluate player performance, considers various factors such as play position and coverage scheme, providing a deeper insight into defensive capabilities.

D.J. Reed of the New York Jets has achieved the highest advanced coverage grade in the NFL after seven weeks of the 2024 season, showcasing his exceptional performance on the field.

This new metric, known as Advanced Coverage Grade, utilizes machine learning to evaluate a player's coverage effectiveness based on various situational factors, providing deeper insights into player performance.

In a tense matchup, the Los Angeles Chargers fell to the Arizona Cardinals 17-15, with the Chargers' defense faltering in the final moments. A crucial unnecessary roughness penalty against rookie cornerback Cam Hart allowed the Cardinals to advance into field goal range, culminating in a game-winning kick from Chad Ryland as time expired.

Despite a strong performance from quarterback Justin Herbert, who threw for 349 yards, the Chargers struggled offensively with key players sidelined. The team faced challenges, including dropped passes and turnovers, leading to their first scoreless first quarter of the season.