NFL Incentives Tracker: $500K on the Line for Jordan Love as Packers Kick-Off Voluntary Offseason Program

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler had a special report during an appearance on SportsCenter on Sunday. As per him, the Green Bay Packers are preparing to sign quarterback Jordan Love to a lucrative contract extension once the 2024 NFL draft is over. However, till then, the Packers are doing everything they can to lure Jordan Love and Co. to train during the off-season workout sessions.

ESPN’s Packers reporter Rob Demovsky took to X to give out the details of incentives promised to key Packers players for attending the offseason program sessions. But unlike what one would expect, Jordan Love isn’t on the top of that list.

Jordan Love to earn hefty extension alongside incentives

“The Packers are committed to getting something done with Love. He got the proof of concept last year with the big season, so they believe he’s their future,” explained ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. He anticipates negotiations might accelerate post-draft, noting that Love, currently on a modest $10 million for the next year, could soon rank among the top 10 highest-paid QBs.

Last spring, Love opted for a one-year bridge deal instead of the Packers exercising his fifth-year option. This strategic move reduced his guaranteed money below the $20 million mark and extended his contract through 2024. This arrangement allowed Green Bay financial leeway while allowing Love to leverage his performance for a better payout, potentially exceeding the fifth-year option by up to $500,000 through added incentives.

As discussions about Love’s upcoming contract unfold, expectations are that his annual earnings could soar to $40 million or more, positioning him among the elite earners in the league, with the potential to approach $50 million annually. In contrast, not all players are swayed by incentive-laden deals. Cornerback Jaire Alexander, despite being offered the most money, said that he wants more.

Jaire Alexander not swayed by mammoth incentive

Jaire Alexander recently chose to forgo a $700,000 bonus by skipping the Cheeseheads’ offseason program. Instead of joining the optional sessions, Alexander opted out, attending only this week’s mandatory minicamp. When asked what would have drawn him to the offseason activities, Alexander quipped with a chuckle, “Man, to come to [the whole] offseason? I’d probably say about, I would’ve definitely been here for 10.” Clarifying further, he confirmed, “Yeah,” he would have shown up for $10 million.

This decision shouldn’t be seen as a lack of commitment though. In fact, Alexander demonstrated a strong dedication to his team and personal development. Unlike many of his teammates who left for vacation spots or returned to their hometowns after the season, Alexander stayed in Green Bay. He only left in early April, right before the official start of the offseason program on the 17th, to spend some time away.

Alexander’s choice not to attend the offseason program meant he forfeited the chance to earn a substantial bonus, part of his four-year, $84 million contract signed the previous May. This season, he was set to make $14 million, though this will now be reduced by $700,000. We’ll get to know whether his decision to forgo optional training sessions will have any impact on his performance once the 2024 season starts rolling.