Packers General Manager Gutekunst indicates interest in Opening discussions for a long-term contract with Jordan Love.
In Green Bay, Wisconsin, Jordan Love’s impressive performance, guiding the NFL’s youngest team to the divisional playoffs in his inaugural year as a starter, has fueled the Green Bay Packers’ desire to secure a long-term extension with him.
Following the trade of four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets, Love initially agreed to a one-year extension, extending his deal through 2024. With Love becoming eligible for another extension in May, Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst expressed the team’s intent to pursue a long-term deal. Gutekunst stated during a season-ending news conference on Thursday, “I think we will go down that road. Certainly, I think that will be important for our football team to have some stability there.”
Gutekunst also expressed optimism about retaining 29-year-old running back Aaron Jones for the upcoming season, emphasizing Jones’ significant influence as a leader in the team’s locker room. Jones had previously restructured his contract and taken a pay cut for the 2023 season to remain with the Packers.
Reflecting on the unexpected playoff run led by Love and Jones, Gutekunst shared excitement about building around Love, highlighting his potential. Additionally, he mentioned that trading cornerback Jaire Alexander was not under consideration, and he provided a cautious outlook on the future of left tackle David Bakhtiari, who faced challenges due to a knee issue.
The Packers, finishing the season with a 10-9 record and seven wins in their last 10 games, now approach the offseason with increased flexibility, overcoming previous salary cap constraints. Gutekunst expressed confidence in utilizing free agency opportunities to improve the team, with five picks in the first three rounds of the upcoming draft.
Addressing the recent hire of former Boston College head coach Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator, Gutekunst downplayed the expected impact on player evaluations, emphasizing the team’s commitment to versatility on both sides of the ball. Hafley replaces Joe Barry, and Gutekunst aims for a fast, physical, and aggressive defense for the upcoming season.
