Kenny Clark, Packers Agree to 3-Year, $64M Contract Extension; Owed $29M in 2024

Kenny Clark will continue anchoring the middle of the Green Bay Packers' defensive line for the foreseeable future.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Sunday that Clark and the Packers agreed to a "massive contract extension" of three years and $64 million. The defensive tackle will be paid $29 million in 2024 alone.

Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst confirmed the extension on Sunday.

The upcoming campaign was set to be the final one on the UCLA's product's previous contract, so this eliminates any immediate need for concern from the fanbase and front office when it comes to keeping the 2016 first-round draft pick with the only NFL team he has ever known.

Clark started just two games for Green Bay during his rookie season but wasted no time establishing himself as a starter moving forward in his second season. The three-time Pro Bowler has been a force on the inside ever since and someone who consistently plugs the middle against the run and generates pressure in the face of opposing quarterbacks.

The 28-year-old has also shown few signs of slowing down.

He made his third career Pro Bowl this past season behind 44 tackles, a career-best 7.5 sacks, three passes defended and two forced fumbles. His ability to be such a disruptive playmaker against the pass benefits the secondary, while the double teams he draws open up blitzing lanes for his teammates.

Pro Football Focus gave him an overall player grade of 68.8, which was an improvement over his 66.4 from 2022.

About the only thing missing from Clark's resume at this point is a Super Bowl ring, and the Packers are surely hoping to change that after a playoff appearance last season.

While quarterback Jordan Love's contract may be the next one for the front office to lock down, he seems to have a bright future after impressing in his first year as a full-time starter. If the defense can play well during the upcoming campaign and beyond, the Packers figure to be a regular playoff contender.

And having Clark in the middle of the defensive line should help that unit do just that.