The Facts: Like many running backs who sign in free agency, Murray's 3-year, $15 million contract has a lot of money tied up in incentives. And he can't reach them if he's not carrying the football. Murray still hopes to seize the starting role ahead of rookie and heir apparent Dalvin Cook, but the Vikings aren't in a rush to make that decision. "We've got a long, long way to go before we make any determinations on that," HC Mike Zimmer said last week.
Diehards Line:
Murray, who can earn at least $4.25 million this year, can make another $2.3 million through incentives in 2017 alone. Murray will make $500,000 should he eclipse 900 rushing yards this season. He’ll then take home another $250,000 for every 100 yards after that (up to 1,500 yards and $2 million total.) He can also earn $300,000 if he’s voted into the Pro Bowl. Whatever Murray makes in incentives for rushing yards is then also added onto his following year’s salary, multiplying the bonuses. So he can max out at $4 million added to his deal this season should he top 1,500 yards and stay on the Vikings roster in 2018. As Star-Tribune staffer Andrew Krammer notes, the Vikings expect a heated competition and, eventually, an established committee to replace Adrian Peterson. Murray’s bid for the lead role won’t begin until training camp, when he’s expected to return from March ankle surgery.