Ex-Bears CB Nahshon Wright leads NFL with $1.4 million in performance-based bonus pay

Former Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright earned an NFL-high $1.4 million in performance-based bonus pay when the league distributed it Monday. That more than doubled his pay after playing on a one-year, $1.1 million contract last season.

Wright, 27, bounced around the league before cashing in on his opportunity with the Bears last season. He had a career-high five interceptions, including one he returned for a touchdown, and was a Pro Bowl alternate.

He left in free agency last week on a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Jets.

The NFL gave players $542 million in performance-based bonuses to young players using a formula based predominantly on snap counts. Browns safety Ronnie Hickman received the next-highest bonus at $1.3 million, followed closely by Falcons offensive tackle Elijah Wilkinson and Panthers safety Nick Scott.

The Bears will move forward at cornerback primarily with Jaylon Johnson on the outside and Kyler Gordon playing nickel. The other outside spot is up for competition among several players, and perhaps some incoming rookies, but mainly Tyrique Stevenson and Terell Smith.