Tom Clements: An Enduring Legacy with the Green Bay Packers

A Storied Tenure with the Packers

For anyone who has followed the Green Bay Packers over the years, the name Tom Clements might evoke a sense of nostalgia and respect. Clements stands as a unique figure in the franchise, as he's been a pivotal constant through the eras of Brett Favre, Aaron Rodgers, and Jordan Love. Yet, all things come to an end. At 71 years old, Clements is retiring from coaching for what he has called the second and final time.

Clements’ journey with the Packers initially began back in 2006, a time when Mike McCarthy helmed the team. As quarterbacks coach, Clements guided Brett Favre through his final two seasons in Green Bay, positioning himself as an integral part of the team’s coaching staff until 2016. His role expanded over the years, transitioning from offensive coordinator from 2012 to 2014 and then serving as associate head coach through 2016.

Impactful Coaching and Player Development

Clements’ influence is undeniable, especially when you look at the accolades of Aaron Rodgers. Under Clements’ tutelage, Rodgers not only secured a Super Bowl XLV MVP but also clinched two NFL MVP titles in 2011 and 2014. It wasn’t until 2022, on Rodgers' own recommendation, that Clements came out of retirement to once again take up the mantle of quarterbacks coach.

Working with Jordan Love, the young starting quarterback for the Packers, Clements' legacy only further cemented itself in team lore. Love, under Clements’ guidance, has already set significant records: his 57 passing touchdowns in the initial two seasons are second only to Rodgers', and his stellar 2023 postseason performance against the Dallas Cowboys was nothing short of historic, breaking team records for passing yards per attempt and passer rating.

The Road Ahead for the Packers

With Clements stepping away, head coach Matt LaFleur reflects, "Tom Clements is going to retire. Man, it's been a cool ride with him for the last three years. He's incredibly consistent. What a great man, great mind. Obviously, he's had the opportunity to coach some of the best. I mean, when you talk about [Brett] Favre, [Aaron] Rodgers, and then the development of Jordan Love, I mean, that's pretty cool. I know he's meant a lot to this organization and his contributions. He will definitely be missed. I just can't say enough great things about him. Really appreciate him."

As the organization contemplates its next steps, LaFleur hints at the possibilities. "We'll see what happens," he says with a grin, suggesting the potential for internal candidates to take over the quarterbacks coach role or perhaps looking outside the current team structure for fresh perspectives.

With Jordan Love committed to a substantial contract of four years and $220 million, the next quarterbacks coach has big shoes to fill. Whether LaFleur opts for continuity or change, one thing remains clear: Tom Clements' legacy will continue to influence the Packers for seasons to come.