green bay packers star player Jordan Love suffered a criticial injurry last match as a result of…
Packers Told Not to Rush Jordan Love’s Major Extension.
There is little argument that Jordan Love showcased his talent as one of the top quarterbacks towards the end of last season. However, does a half-season performance and a brief playoff run guarantee the Green Bay Packers that Love deserves a lucrative contract extension?
This question looms over the franchise this offseason, given that Love is currently under contract until 2024 with a deal that could potentially pay him up to $22.5 million next season, but with only $13.5 million guaranteed, according to Spotrac.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report succinctly suggested on March 28 that it would be prudent for the Packers to wait for another full season before committing to any major financial decisions regarding their quarterback.
While some, like Gagnon, advocate for a cautious approach with Love, the front office seems to have a different stance. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo reported in February that the Packers are considering extending Love on a “fair-market” deal during the summer.
They stated, “The Packers are expected to be willing to discuss a new, fair-market deal for Love that pays him like a true starter.” Such discussions typically occur in June or before the start of training camp. Love, at just 25 years old, is poised for a significant career payday.
The term “fair market” is subject to interpretation, but it’s likely to approach an annual value of $50 million. Several quarterbacks already command at least that much in annual average value on their current contracts, with more expected to join as they negotiate new deals amid rising NFL salary caps.
Spotrac estimates Love’s market value at $44.8 million annually over a new four-year contract, totaling nearly $180 million. And this figure could even prove conservative.
Considering Love’s potential, it might be wise for Green Bay to secure an extension now, especially if he delivers another impressive season, which could drive his annual salary even higher.
Love started all 17 regular-season games in his debut year as the Packers’ QB1, following three seasons on the sidelines learning behind Aaron Rodgers. His learning period paid dividends as he got off to a strong start with 7 touchdowns and just 1 interception in the first three games.
Though there was a slump mid-season when the team struggled, Love rallied, leading the Packers to a 6-2 record to close the season and secure a playoff berth. He displayed solid decision-making, throwing only 1 interception in the final eight regular-season games, and guided the team to a playoff victory against the Dallas Cowboys before narrowly losing to the San Francisco 49ers in the following round.