One of the most integral pieces of the Green Bay Packers' defensive lineup is set to remain in Wisconsin for the foreseeable future. Defensive tackle Kenny Clark has inked a lucrative three-year extension worth $64 million, securing his place on the team deeper into the 2020s.
A Key Player Locked In
Clark, 29, was approaching the final season of the four-year, $70 million extension he signed back in 2020. Originally poised to account for a significant $27.5 million against the Packers’ salary cap, his new deal alleviates that immediate financial strain while ensuring his presence on the roster. With the new contract in place, the defensive stalwart will now collect a total of $29 million in 2024.
The specifics of the guaranteed money have not been disclosed, but the new contract's structure indicates a sizable commitment by the Packers to maintain one of the league's top defensive tackles. Clark's average annual value (AAV) is approximately $21.3 million, making him the 12th-highest paid player at his position in the league.
Pro Bowl Prestige
Clark's performance on the field has certainly warranted such an investment. Coming off his third career Pro Bowl berth, he notched career highs in several key defensive statistics last season. In 2023, Clark recorded 7.5 sacks, 9 tackles for loss, and 16 quarterback hits, showcasing his prowess in disrupting the offensive play. Impressively, he has missed just one game over the past three seasons, underscoring his reliability and durability.
Moreover, Clark has consistently been a force in the middle of the defense, tallying at least four sacks per season from the nose tackle position for the last three years. This level of consistent production has been vital for a Green Bay defense that is now undergoing a transition under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
Strategic Financial Moves
The new deal is also strategically advantageous for the Packers. Clark's previous contract had incorporated three void years, which would have significantly impacted the team's salary cap with a $13.75 million dead cap hit in 2025. By re-signing Clark, the Packers not only secure a key player but also manage their financial future more effectively.
With Clark locked in, the Green Bay Packers are looking to build on a solid foundation as they adapt to Hafley's new defensive system. Clark's experience and high level of play will be pivotal as the team navigates this new chapter. Packers fans can expect to see their Pro Bowl defensive tackle continue to wreak havoc on opposing offenses, ensuring the defense remains a formidable unit in the seasons to come.