In a game in which many Chargers players are expected to rest, one star wide receiver has other plans.
Keenan Allen, despite being a veteran for this Chargers team for many years, seemingly wants to bolster his chances of earning a contract incentive set for this year. While it would seem that a veteran like Allen would want to rest before the playoffs, it doesn’t seem like he will heed that advice.
Allen currently has 74 catches, 741 yards, and 4 touchdowns on the year. However, due to some monetary goals set for him, this season finale against the Broncos could be highly lucrative. Here are the following monetary goals that Allen could be set to achieve should he play in the season finale.
- 6 receptions: $750k
- 2 touchdowns: $250k
- 9 receiving yards: $250k
- 134 receiving yards: $250k
- 4 TDs: $250K
Incentives on the Line in Chargers’ Season Finale
Because it will be backup QB Trey Lance that will be getting the start for Los Angeles this weekend, both players decided to have a little fun concerning their incentives. According to ESPN, both Allen and Lance had this funny exchange.
“I need a new car,” Lance responded.
“S–t,” Allen fired back. “I might need to sit this one out.”
Surely, if Harbaugh knows what’s good for the team, he could keep Allen out their at least for the six catches to receive at least a little bit of the pay raise he believes he deserves. After all, the nine receiving yards as well would be a million dollars easily. Still, what with both Quentin Johnston and Ladd Mcconkey unlikely to play, there’s a chance that an absence left by them could allow Allen to aim higher.
The only caveat for Allen is the six catches. Allen has not made six catches in a game since Week 7 of this year against the Indianapolis Colts. Against a stingy Broncos Secondary, chances are he won’t get those same chances. Still, he has at the very least made six catches in three games this season.
Injuries, Absences, and a Risky Opportunity
In other news, the Chargers have ruled out several players, both due to injury and some ailments. Omarion Hampton has been ruled out with an ankle injury, as well as corner Nikko Reed with a hamstring issue. Both left tackle Jamaree Salyer and safety Elijah Molden are doubtful with hamstring injuries.
Five Chargers will be questionable for this matchup, including the likes of Kimani Vidal(neck), and RJ Mickens(shoulder).
Amidst all the injury crisis, Allen’s incentives could come to the fore. For a player that has meant so much to the franchise, it would be something special and somewhat crazy should he earn his hefty pay raise. It is possible that Harbaugh will get him his million dollars by hook or by crook, but the better story will be if the Chargers can keep him healthy as well. It’s one thing to want more money. It’s quite another to risk injury to try and earn it.
Keenan Allen Makes Shocking Admission About Contract