I get where you guys are coming from, but your examples (20 percent and 50 percent more) are too extreme.
I think you make a valid argument if you say, 14m AAV versus 15m AAV on the next contract, or something to that effect. Otherwise, you’re asking him to leave a ton of money on the table. Even in my example, we see players do it all of the time. After all, there are 12 playoff teams every year and another handful like the Steelers, Browns and Vikes, who are still competing late into the season. If you look at it that way, there are about 16 teams or roughly 50% who have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs.
Warm weather, pretty girls, cheaper taxes, and a more laid back head coach can often be just as appealing as going to the playoffs every year—especially if you’re getting paid more!