ESPN predicts what a contract extension for Packers LB Rashan Gary will look like
The Green Bay Packers aren't a franchise that typically makes a big splash in the free-agent market, but that doesn't mean they don't spend. Green Bay's philosophy is to draft well and pay their own players, instead of relying on the free-agent market for roster upgrades. That's why it seems extremely likely that linebacker Rashan […]
The Green Bay Packers aren't a franchise that typically makes a big splash in the free-agent market, but that doesn't mean they don't spend.
Green Bay's philosophy is to draft well and pay their own players, instead of relying on the free-agent market for roster upgrades.
That's why it seems extremely likely that linebacker Rashan Gary will receive an extension soon from the Packers.
Gary, a former Michigan standout, was the No. 12 overall pick by Green Bay in the 2019 NFL Draft. He had a career year this past season, totaling 42 tackles and 9.5 sacks. Gary also had 2 forced fumbles.
ESPN recently predicted what an extension for Gary could look like.
Gary has put everything together from a skill standpoint, and the sky is truly the limit. He has yet to play 700 snaps in a season, as he started his career working behind Za'Darius Smith and Preston Smith, but with Za'Darius now on the Minnesota Vikings, Gary should be the focal point of the Packers' front seven.
Green Bay just made cornerback Jaire Alexander the highest-paid player at his position, inking him to a four-year, $84 million extension as he entered his fifth-year option season.
The Packers may elect to wait on Gary as well, but with the money cleared up from trading Davante Adams, they could explore a multi-year deal before Gary repeats his 2021 performance and asks for the moon in negotiations.
ESPN thinks Gary will receive a five-year deal worth $130 million ($26 million per year) with $45 million in guaranteed money (ESPN noted that Green Bay typically doesn't guarantee any money outside of signing bonuses for non-quarterbacks).
The Packers would probably be wise to go ahead and get this deal done. As ESPN mentioned, if Gary's production explodes in 2022, he's going to become an even more expensive player. There's really no need to wait with Davante Adams' contract no longer a roadblock for Green Bay.
Featured image via Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin / USA TODAY NETWORK
