This is the time of year when final season statistics are officially finalized by the NFL and players earn raises that are included in their contract. These raises are referred to as escalators and , if earned, increase the value of a players’ contract. One set of escalators is for veteran players while another set is known as the “Proven Performance Escalator”. The PPE is available to all offensive and defensive players selected between round 3 and 7 of the draft during the 4th year of their contract. If earned this raises the salary of the player to that of the lowest Restricted Free Agent Tender. To earn that escalator a player must play in at least 35% of the snaps in two of his first three seasons or 35% of the total snaps over the three year period. The PPE is never guaranteed and most escalators are not guaranteed.