The Green Bay Packers have completed the long-awaited Aaron Rodgers‘ contract extension.
The deal makes Rodgers the highest-paid player in the NFL. It’s for five years and worth $110 million, with $40 million guaranteed. He’ll get $62.5 million over the first three years of the deal.
Since Rodgers is already under contract for two more seasons, the extension will keep him with the Packers until 2019. The new money averages out to a nice, round $22 million per season, not the rumored $25 million the Packers were supposed to be giving up.
As such, when you throw that in with the nearly $20 million Rodgers was already due in 2013 and 2014, he averages a much more manageable $18.5 million per season.
That’s good for the Packers salary cap and their ability to pay someone other than their franchise quarterback and linebacker.
Here’s the brass handing out their sound bites.
“Aaron is a true professional and a special player,” general manager Ted Thompson said. “He works hard, is humble, and is focused on his actions, on and off the field. He is an excellent teammate and pushes himself and others to be the very best. We are happy to reach an agreement to extend his career with the Packers.”
“An exciting day for our football program,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “Aaron is an excellent illustration of a Green Bay Packer. It is truly a blessing to witness his continued accomplishments, both on and off the field.”
Finally, here’s what the man of the hour had to say.
Big thanks to the Organization, our coaching staff, my teammates, and packer nation for the last 8 years! Excited about 7 more!#extension
— Aaron Rodgers (@AaronRodgers12) April 26, 2013
You’re welcome.