Aaron Rodgers, the legendary quarterback of the Green Bay Packers, recently signed his first contract extension back in 2013. This monumental deal was worth a whopping $110 million over five years and included $62.5 million in guaranteed money.
At the time, Rodgers was already considered one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, having led the Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 2011 and earning two Pro Bowl selections and one MVP award. His new contract solidified his status as one of the highest-paid players in the league and cemented his position as the face of the Packers franchise.
But the road to this historic contract was not without its challenges. Rodgers had spent his first three years in the NFL as a backup to the legendary Brett Favre, and it wasn`t until 2008 that he got his chance to start. Even then, he had to prove himself to his teammates and coaches, earning their trust with his incredible work ethic and talent.
By 2013, Rodgers had not only proven himself to be an elite quarterback but also a leader on and off the field. His dedication to the game and his team, combined with his incredible skills, made him an invaluable asset to the Packers organization.
The contract extension not only secured Rodgers` future with the Packers but also set the tone for future NFL contracts. His guaranteed money was the highest in NFL history at that time, and his average salary per year of $22 million was also a record at the time.
But what truly sets Rodgers` contract apart is the way it was structured. The deal included a $35 million signing bonus, which made up the majority of his guaranteed money. This allowed the Packers to spread out the guaranteed money over the course of the contract, reducing the overall impact on their salary cap.
Rodgers` contract extension set a new standard for NFL contracts, both in terms of guaranteed money and structure. His success on the field and his leadership off the field continue to make him an important figure in the league today.
In conclusion, Aaron Rodgers` first contract extension was a milestone moment for both the player and the NFL. His incredible talent, work ethic, and leadership earned him a historic deal that set a new standard for player contracts. As he enters his 17th season with the Packers, Rodgers remains one of the most dominant forces in the league and an inspiration to aspiring football players everywhere.