Pro Bowler for the Packers Could Sign an Extension to Clear Cap Space.
The Green Bay Packers, led by general manager Brian Gutekunst, are confronted with a substantial task of managing their salary cap this offseason.
As the new league year approaches on March 13, the Packers currently find themselves approximately $6.9 million over the cap in terms of effective cap space. However, there is potential relief on the horizon through a new extension for veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark, aimed at providing additional spending flexibility for Green Bay.
Clark, set to count $27.4 million against the cap in 2024, could potentially secure a three-year extension worth $51 million, according to Spotrac.
Without a new deal, only veteran offensive tackle David Bakhtiari is projected to have a higher cap hit than Clark for the upcoming 2024 season. Currently, Clark’s existing contract represents 10.94 percent of the Packers’ cap percentage.
Regarded as one of the premier players in his position, Clark showcased his dominance as an interior pass-rusher with 7.5 sacks and 44 total tackles in 2023, earning his third Pro Bowl appearance by replacing Javon Hargrave.
If an extension materializes, it would mark the second consecutive offseason that the Packers rework Clark’s contract. Last offseason, they freed up $11 million in cap space by converting $13.835 million into a signing bonus when facing a tight cap situation.
The Packers, coming off a surprising playoff run in 2023, including a notable victory over the Dallas Cowboys, are eager to build on their success. Lowering Clark’s cap number is seen as a crucial step towards further progress in the upcoming 2024 season.
Despite the challenging cap situation, Gutekunst remains confident that the team can attract free agents. He emphasized that the decision to add impact players will depend on the individual and their potential impact on the team’s success.
The Packers will face tough decisions, including the future of veteran safety Darnell Savage and potentially moving on from Bakhtiari. However, Gutekunst believes that restructuring contracts of veteran players and a long-term extension for quarterback Jordan Love are viable options to enhance spending flexibility this offseason.
