Rashan Gary, a linebacker for the Packers, suffered an ACL tear in November, which delayed his ability to obtain a contract extension.
Gary told ESPN’s Rob Demovsky that he would be open to signing a contract extension now or after the season.
The former 12th overall pick is currently playing on his fifth-year option.
While the linebacker is undoubtedly aware of his upcoming free agency, Gary returned to the field in Week 1 and is more concerned with getting back to his previous form.
Gary stated, “I’ve just been going through my rehab process and just trying to get back and focus on me.
For the Packers, Gary is still counting pitches.
Although he could only play 12 defensive snaps in Week 1, Gary was still very effective; according to ESPN Stats and Information, he made three pressures on seven pass-rush attempts.
Gary will continue to be on a pitch count, according to Demovsky, but he should get more snaps against the Falcons tomorrow.
Gary commented on his season debut, saying, “I felt I could’ve seen a lot of things just a little quicker.”.
“But for my first game back in live action, I felt like I saw what I needed to see.
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It took Gary a few seasons to earn back the money he spent on his draft pick, but in 2021, when he finished with 9 point 5 sacks and 28 QB hits, he really started to shine.
With six sacks in nine games in 2022, he appeared to be making further progress.
As a result of the linebacker’s torn ACL in November, he won’t be playing in 2023 on a lucrative contract; instead, he’ll make $10.89MM.
Gary likely has a long way to go before catching up to Nick Bosa’s record-breaking $170MM deal with the 49ers, but the Packers defender could be in line for a sizable pay day next offseason if he performs well in 2023.