Why did Packers agree new deal with Jordan Love? Breaking down Aaron Rodgers’ replacement’s new contract
Aaron Rodgers is out and Jordan Love is in for the Packers' 2023 season. Three years after the young quarterback's initial drafting, he has taken over for No. 12. The quarterback has gargantuan shoes to fill, but the team appears to have confidence in him, already extending him into 2024.
According to Adam Schefter, the quarterback was extended to kick off May 2023. Why was he extended and how big of an investment did the team make? Per Spotrac, the extension is worth up to $22.5 million, with $13.5 million guaranteed. However, on his previous deal, he was set to make $23 million guaranteed.
Will the Packers finish over .500 in the first year of the post-Rodgers era?
Instead of a fifth-year option, which would have guaranteed almost $25 million, the team instead drew up an extension, effectively cutting the quarterback's pay but also giving him the opportunity to earn it with success. As it stands, however, it appears he will still be making dirt by NFL standards in 2023.
Jordan Love was previously scheduled to earn $23.01M.
2023: $2.29M
2024: $20.272M option
All $23M would have become fully guaranteed with an option exercise today.
Instead a compromise of about $10M less guaranteed, at nearly the same cash to be earned. twitter.com/AdamSchefter/s…
Jordan Love's long-term future remains unclear despite extension
This year, he is set to make $2.29 million. Next year, his salary will swell. Of course, 2024 is also the last year of his deal. Without another round of negotiations, he'll be on the streets in 2025.
Meaning, it's put up or shut up time for the quarterback and his goal will be to get back to the bargaining table as soon as possible. In other words, his agent likely won't get too comfortable over the next season.
The #Packers have agreed to terms with QB Jordan Love on a new contract though 2024, per sources. https://t.co/gde0DZKHXn
With a quality season, fans will expect Love to get locked down long-term. That said, if 2023 doesn't go according to plan, signing the quarterback through the 2024 season for $10 million less but still locking him down takes care of who the bridge quarterback will be next season.
Of course, it also gives him one last shot at clicking. Packers fans will hope it doesn't come to that. Will Jordan Love secure his long-term future in 2023?