There is little dispute that Jordan Love showcased elite quarterbacking skills during the latter part of last season. However, the critical question facing the Green Bay Packers this offseason is whether a strong half-season performance and a brief two-game playoff stint are sufficient grounds to justify a lucrative contract extension for him.
As it stands, Love remains under contract with the Packers until 2024, with potential earnings reaching up to $22.5 million next season, although only $13.5 million of that is guaranteed, as reported by Spotrac.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report succinctly advises the Packers to exercise patience and refrain from rushing into significant financial commitments regarding their quarterback.
“Make Jordan Love prove it for one more full season.”
While Gagnon advocates for a wait-and-see approach with Love, the team’s front office appears to be leaning towards a different direction.
Reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero, and Mike Garafolo in February suggest that the Packers are contemplating the possibility of extending Love’s contract during the summer, aiming for a deal that aligns with the “fair market” standards.
Determining what constitutes a “fair market” deal sparks debate, but it’s likely to approach an annual value of $50 million.
Currently, four quarterbacks command annual salaries of at least that amount, according to Over The Cap, and as more quarterbacks enter or near their prime, they’re expected to join this elite group as new contracts are negotiated amidst the rising NFL salary cap.
Spotrac estimates Love’s market value at approximately $44.8 million annually over a prospective four-year contract, translating to a potential total of nearly $180 million. However, this projection may prove conservative as negotiations unfold and the market landscape evolves.
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