Jets Rookie Malachi Moore Shockingly Turns ONE Chance Into a $1M Payday—You Won’t Believe How!

The National Football League (NFL) recently announced the Performance-Based Pay figures for the 2025 season, and the New York Jets are making headlines for their impressive representation. Leading the charge is new Jets cornerback Nahshon Wright, who topped the list by earning an additional $1.4 million, as highlighted by NFL executive Brian McCarthy on X (formerly Twitter).

According to McCarthy, "NFL players will receive more than $542 million in Performance-Based Pay for their performance during the 2025 season." This program is a collectively bargained benefit designed to reward players based on their playing time and salary levels.

The Jets Rookies Shine

Wright's earnings mark a significant increase from his previous one-year deal with the Chicago Bears, which was valued at $1.1 million. He made a notable impact on the field, recording five interceptions, which undoubtedly contributed to his substantial payday.

But Wright isn't the only rookie making waves. Jets safety Malachi Moore also made the top-25 list, coming in at No. 21 with an extra $1.042 million. Moore, drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, played in all 17 games for the Jets, starting 14. His performance was stellar, with three passes defended, one forced fumble, and a total of 101 tackles. He also managed to keep opposing quarterbacks at a 63 percent completion rate (29-of-46 passing), showcasing his defensive prowess.

Moore's increase in earnings is particularly noteworthy considering he signed a four-year rookie deal worth just over $5 million after being drafted by New York. Both rookies' performances are a testament to their hard work and the effectiveness of the Performance-Based Pay program, which aims to provide additional compensation for players with high playing time but lower salaries.

As outlined by NFL.com, "Under the Performance-Based Pay program, a fund is created and used as a supplemental form of player compensation based upon a comparison of playing time to salary." This means that players who have higher playtime percentages and lower salaries stand to benefit the most from this fund.

It's worth noting that more than $542 million is a significant amount earmarked for rewarding NFL players, reflecting the league's commitment to fair compensation practices. As Wright and Moore capitalize on their hard work, they both look poised to play vital roles in the Jets' secondary for the upcoming 2026 season.

With the Jets making strides in their roster, fans can expect an exciting year ahead as these talented young players continue to develop and make their mark in the league.