QB Jordan Love Won’t Practice with Packers Amid Contract Negotiations.
Jordan Love will not be participating in practice with the Green Bay Packers until his contract extension is resolved, the Associated Press reported on July 22, 2024.
Love was seen in street clothes alongside coach Matt LaFleur at the Packers’ first training camp workout on Monday. General manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed that Love will not practice until a new deal is reached. Love, whose current contract expires at the end of the season, reported to camp last week but won’t be working out until the contract situation is settled.
“We understand his position,” Gutekunst stated. “It’s crucial for him to practice and work with his teammates, but he won’t be practicing until the issue is resolved.”
Gutekunst is optimistic about reaching an agreement soon, noting that Love is still participating in other team activities. “We’re working hard to get it done because both sides want the same thing,” he said.
LaFleur is handling the situation calmly. “It’s part of the business, but we’re confident he’ll be out there soon,” he said. “He’s well-prepared, and while physical reps are important, he’s getting mental reps too.”
With Love sitting out, the Packers started training camp with Sean Clifford and rookie Michael Pratt as their only quarterbacks. Clifford emphasized Love’s dedication, saying, “He’s been working all summer, and nobody questions his work ethic.”
Love signed a one-year extension in May 2023, with $13.5 million guaranteed and $9 million in incentives, to allow the Packers to evaluate him as he became the starter following Aaron Rodgers’ trade to the New York Jets. Love led the Packers to a 10-9 season and an NFC divisional playoff appearance.
While the Packers and Love have been negotiating, other quarterbacks have signed significant deals. Detroit’s Jared Goff and Jacksonville’s Trevor Lawrence both secured lucrative extensions.
Receiver Christian Watson expressed full support for Love, saying, “He deserves every penny, and we hope he gets what he wants so we can move forward.”
Love, 25, had a strong season with 4,159 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, showing significant improvement. Despite a setback in the playoffs, his overall performance was promising.
Gutekunst acknowledged the risks involved in Love practicing without a new contract but praised his openness during negotiations. “This is part of the process,” he said. “We hope he doesn’t miss too much time.”
In other news, defensive tackle Kenny Clark signed a three-year extension through 2027. Clark, a three-time Pro Bowler, is focused on helping the team reach the Super Bowl.
Additionally, right tackle Zach Tom was cleared to practice after recovering from a torn pectoral. Six other players, including TE Tucker Kraft and WR Jayden Reed, did not practice due to various injuries.
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