Video: Did the Saints sub RB Mark Ingram to save $100,000?

The NFL is a business, first and foremost.

While we’d like to think the players will always be taken care of, franchises need to make those tough decisions that ultimately may have adverse effects.

During the Arizona-New Orleans game on Sunday, running back Mark Ingram may have been the victim of such a circumstance:

Whoa. Mark Ingram was one TD away from a $100,000 incentive in his contract. He got pulled on the goal line & went nuts on sideline.

— Jason Smith (@howaboutafresca) December 19, 2016

One of the issues with incentive-laden contracts. https://t.co/SpKoPPjV8E

— Ross Tucker (@RossTuckerNFL) December 19, 2016

Ingram was one touchdown away from reaching a $100,000 incentive clause in his contract. Instead of letting him punch the score in, the Saints pulled him from the game.

Understandably so, Ingram had an explosive tirade on the sidelines.

Sean Payton asked about Mark Ingram yelling: "Next question." Payton asked again: "I've already said."

— Josh Katzenstein (@jkatzenstein) December 19, 2016

When asked about the play after the game, head coach Sean Payton didn’t wish to elaborate. Despite leading the team in carries and rushing yards, Ingram had zero touchdowns. Fellow rusher Tim Hightower had two rushing scores on the day.

New Orleans ended up winning the game by a score of 48-41.