Packers Secure Right Tackle Zach Tom with Historic Extension, Bolstering Jordan Love’s Protection
Green Bay Packers solidify offensive line with a significant four-year contract extension for right tackle Zach Tom, securing a key piece of protection for quarterback Jordan Love. The deal, worth $88 million with a potential $92 million maximum, includes a record-breaking $30.2 million signing bonus for an NFL offensive lineman.
Historic Deal Underscores Tom’s Value
The Green Bay Packers have made a substantial investment in their future by extending the contract of right tackle Zach Tom. The new four-year agreement, reported to be worth $88 million and potentially reaching $92 million, includes a groundbreaking $30.2 million signing bonus, the largest ever awarded to an offensive lineman in the National Football League. While the specifics of what could elevate the contract’s total value remain undisclosed, the sheer size of the signing bonus signals the Packers’ immense confidence in Tom’s abilities.
From Draft Pick to Linchpin
Tom, 26, is entering his fourth NFL season, having established himself as a cornerstone of the Packers’ offensive line. He has started every game for Green Bay over the past two seasons, demonstrating remarkable consistency and reliability at right tackle. Selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Wake Forest, Tom was a part-time contributor as a rookie, playing in nine games with five starts. During his inaugural season, he showcased his versatility by splitting time between left tackle and left guard.
Tom ascended to the starting right tackle position prior to the 2023 season and has not relinquished the role since. His performance and steadfast presence on the line were instrumental in the Packers’ decision to offer him this lucrative long-term commitment, highlighted by the unprecedented signing bonus. This new deal represents a significant financial upgrade from the four-year, $4.16 million contract he signed as a rookie.
Building Around Jordan Love
The extension ensures that Zach Tom will remain with the Packers through the 2029 campaign, preventing him from hitting free agency next offseason. This move is strategically crucial as Green Bay aims to maximize the prime years of quarterback Jordan Love. Love, also 26, is currently operating under a four-year, $220 million contract that extends through the 2028 season.
Since taking over as the Packers’ starting quarterback in 2023, succeeding Aaron Rodgers, Love has guided the team to consecutive playoff berths. Green Bay reached the divisional round in 2023 and made a wild-card exit last season, falling to the eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles. The organization’s objective is clear: to build upon these recent playoff appearances and contend for a Super Bowl title. Securing a reliable and high-performing offensive lineman like Tom is a vital step in protecting their franchise quarterback and achieving that ultimate goal.
