Zach Tom, the Green Bay Packers’ starting right tackle, has agreed to a four-year contract extension worth $88 million, with the potential to reach $92 million, according to NFL Media.
The deal includes a $30.2 million signing bonus, marking the largest signing bonus ever given to an offensive lineman in NFL history.
A Major Milestone for Tom and the Packers
The extension is a significant step for Tom, who was entering the final year of his rookie contract. The 26-year-old became a full-time starter in 2023, after being drafted by the Packers in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Tom played a crucial role in Green Bay’s success last season, making 17 regular season starts and helping the Packers reach the divisional round of the NFC playoffs for the second consecutive year.
This extension also signals the Packers’ long-term investment in Tom, who has become a key piece of their offensive line, and highlights their commitment to bolstering the team’s success, especially as they look ahead to the 2025 season.
The Impact on Jordan Love and the Packers’ Offseason Moves
Tom’s performance has been instrumental in providing Jordan Love, the Packers’ quarterback, with solid protection. Love’s rise as the starting QB coincided with Tom’s addition to the lineup, and the pair are expected to lead Green Bay’s offense as Love aims for a strong 2025 season after injuries slowed his progress in 2024.
While some fans have voiced concerns over the Packers’ more conservative approach in free agency, the team has made notable roster moves this offseason.
The Packers strengthened their offensive and defensive lines, particularly with the additions of former 49ers guard Aaron Banks and former Raiders cornerback Nate Hobbs. Additionally, during the draft, Green Bay brought in Matthew Golden, a wide receiver who was their first Round 1 pick at that position since 2002.
A Historic Deal for the Packers
The historic extension of Zach Tom also comes just days before Mark Murphy, the Packers’ president and CEO, is set to retire on July 25 after nearly 18 years of leadership.
In response to some criticisms of the team’s offseason moves, Murphy recently expressed his confidence in the team’s future, writing, “I am serious about Super Bowl possibilities.
We have a young team (two years in a row, the youngest team in the League with two playoff appearances) that is well-coached and should make significant progress this year.”
This contract extension is a major win for both Zach Tom and the Green Bay Packers. With the historic signing bonus, Tom’s continued presence on the offensive line will be crucial as the team continues to build around Jordan Love and set their sights on future success.
The Packers’ offseason moves and commitment to their young talent position them well for the upcoming seasons, despite some fan frustrations over free agency decisions.
