Incentives in Minnesota Vikings CB Stephon Gilmore's contract paint a large picture of success

The Minnesota Vikings needed to add a cornerback to the roster not just for depth but someone they can trust to play heavy snaps in a rotation. They got that by signing cornerback Stephon Gilmore to a one-year deal worth up to $10 million with $7 million guaranteed.

The deal gives defensive coordinator Brian Flores someone he can rely on as well as more flexibility to be aggressive and also play man coverage. It's something Flores has historically liked to do and now he has the flexibility to do so.

Stephon Gilmore contract incentives revealed

We know the contract structure that Gilmore has with the $7 million that is guaranteed, but it's the other $3 million that we aren't quite sure of yet. That question now has an answer thanks to The Star Tribune's Ben Goessling . That $3 million has an interesting structure that relies on both the performance of Gilmore and the Vikings as a whole.

• $1 million based on playing time: $250k for 70% of defensive snaps, $500k for 80% and $1 million for 90%
• If the Vikings make the playoffs and Gilmore hits one of the above incentives, that amount doubles.
• Last season, Gilmore had two interceptions and played 93% of the snaps. In order to be eligible for any of the above incentives, Gilmore must get three interceptions. They are considered not likely to be earned.
• $1 million for first team All-Pro, $500k for second team.

It's a really good structure for both sides. Gilmore can add just above 42% of his earnings with these incentives and the Vikings won't have to pay them if he gets hurt or doesn't play well.

This is really good process by the Vikings, general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and salary cap guru Rob Brzezinski.

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