The Green Bay Packers, like many teams in the NFL, started their annual training camp on Monday. News surrounding the start of camp got off to a pleasant start on Sunday night with the news that three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark had signed a three-year $64 million contract extension to remain in Green Bay. He became just the third Packers player to receive a third contract from the organization since the late Ted Thompson took over as general manager in 2005.
Four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers and five-time All-Pro David Bakhtiari were the other two.
Unfortunately, the good vibes surrounding the Packers and getting contracts agreed upon was short-lived. Before training camp began on Monday morning, general manager Brian Gutekunst revealed that quarterback Jordan Love would not be participating on the field in practices until his own contract extension was complete.
The Green Bay Packers Are Still Working on a Contract Extension for Jordan Love
While both the Packers and Love had expressed their desires for a deal to be completed and signed by the start of training camp, that simply could not happen. As noted, Love is not holding out. He is present at the Packers’ practice facility. He simply is not participating:
Jordan Love not practicing but was all smiles walking out with Head Coach Matt LaFleur.
Welcome to #PackersCamp Practice No. ☝️ pic.twitter.com/odMRSpPOub
— Wes Hodkiewicz (@WesHod) July 22, 2024
As seen in the video in the post above, there is certainly no ill will between Love and head coach Matt LaFleur. This is simply the business of the NFL.
Earlier today, it was reported that the main sticking point in the Packers’ contract negotiations with Love is money. As stated in the report, the ball is in Green Bay’s court, as it were.
Green Bay Packers Pro Bowl Left Guard Elgton Jenkins Supports Jordan Love
After practice on Monday, several players were able to speak to the media. Love was not one of them, and he may not be available for interviews until his contract is signed.
One player that was available was Pro Bowl left guard Elgton Jenkins. When asked about Love and the contract negotiations, he said:
“Obviously Jordan wants to be a Packer. He tells us everyday. He shows it everyday. He does it the Packer way everyday…. I want him as our quarterback.”
Obviously, Jenkins is closer to the situation than most people. It certainly sounds like Love wants to get a contract signed. However, he also wants to be paid what he is worth.
Jenkins also emphasized, “I want him as our quarterback.” The message to the team is clear: “get it done.”
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