Packers: Details of Marcedes Lewis’ two-year contract

Tight end Marcedes Lewis has been one of the most underrated stars of the Green Bay Packers‘ offense in recent years.

Aaron Rodgers loves him. And for good reason. Lewis is a leader. He’s one of the best blockers at his position. He’s experienced. And he can also contribute as a receiver.

The 36-year-old will be back next season after signing a new two-year deal earlier this offseason. It’s a great move for the Packers as they get back an important player on offense.

We now know a bit more about Lewis’ new deal.

According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, the Packers have added two voidable years to the contract, which allows them to spread out the signing bonus and lower this year’s cap hit. Lewis’ signing bonus this season is $2.1 million and he has a base salary of $1.15 million.

Lewis’ cap hit for 2021 is $2.38 million, a relatively low number. Considering the value he brings to Green Bay’s offense, a team in win-now mode, this is a great move for the Packers. Lewis’ cap hit will rise to $4.53 million in 2022 but the Packers will have the opportunity to make that considerably lower if they released Lewis next offseason. There would also be other ways to lower the cap hit.

But that’s a topic for another day. Green Bay is going to have to make a number of cap moves again next year. For now, the team’s focus has been to get under the salary cap without having to lose too many important players. They’ve been able to bring back Lewis, a key player on offense, for a low cap hit in 2021.

By adding voidable years to the contract, the Packers are able to spread out some of the cost, allowing them to lower Lewis’ salary cap hit for this season, while also getting back an important player.