Packers and Elgton Jenkins agree to contract extension: What to Know

A few weeks ago, the Green Bay Packers restructured what little bit they could in Dean Lowry’s contract to free up some additional cap space, which told us that another move was incoming. Turns out that move was an extension for Elgton Jenkins.

According to Ian Rapoport, this is a four-year extension worth $68 million with a max value of $74 million with incentives. The deal also includes a $22 million signing bonus, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Jenkins was in the final year of his rookie contract and was set to be a free agent in 2023.

It always seemed likely that the Packers and Jenkins were going to workout a deal at some point, considering how good he is and the fact that Green Bay always prioritizes re-signing their own. However, the tricky part was always going to be determining his contract value, given that he can play both guard and tackle. But as Rapoport points out, his extension appears to be more in line with that of a guard based on the initial details, and makes him the second-highest paid player in the NFL at that position. For reference, David Bakhtiari’s deal was four years worth $92 million.

"“We are very excited to be able to come to an agreement that keeps Elgton with the Packers,” said Brian Gutekunst. “Since the moment he walked into the building, Elgton has been a core member of this franchise while displaying an uncommon versatility, unselfishness and toughness. He’s a tremendous leader and teammate and he has earned everything that has come to him.”"

Jenkins began the year at right tackle coming off an ACL injury and took some lumps lined up outside. In five games at right tackle, Jenkins was credited by PFF with giving up 12 pressures and two sacks. Since moving back to left guard, however, he has allowed just four pressures and one sack in seven games. The overall improved play of the Packers offensive line unit in recent weeks has been a big part of their recent success on offense.

Keeping Jenkins in Green Bay for the foreseeable future takes one big decision off the Packers’ plate this upcoming offseason. Another extension that will probably happen at some point will be for Rashan Gary, who will be playing on a fifth-year option during the 2023 season.

Jenkins versatility gives the Packers the flexibility to play him wherever there is a need — an incredibly valuable skill-set — but he’s clearly at his best when at guard. With Jenkins, Josh Myers, and Jon Runyan, the Packers have their interior offensive line set for the next few seasons—although the tackle position still remains a bit up in the air.