The Green Bay Packers picked up Rashan Gary’s fifth-year contract option, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
Gary, the 12th overall pick in the 2019 draft, will remain under contract with the Packers through the 2023 season. He broke out as a star rusher in 2021 (9.5 sacks) and will go into the 2022 season as one of the NFL’s best young defensive players.
The fifth-year option will be valued at around $11 million for Gary in 2023.
Gary, who doesn’t turn 25 until December, has played in 47 games (with 20 starts) over three seasons in Green Bay. He’s produced 16.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, 42 quarterback hits and 16 tackles for loss.
All first-round picks receive fully guaranteed four-year contracts with fifth-year options. Teams must decide on the fifth year between the player’s third and fourth seasons.
If Gary continues his ascent in 2022, the Packers will likely approach him about a long-term contract extension at some point next offseason.
The Packers have picked up their fifth-year options on four straight first-round picks: Gary, Darnell Savage, Jaire Alexander and Kenny Clark. The decision on Jordan Love comes next year at this time.
