Green Bay Packers fans haven't had much to celebrate in recent weeks, but Rashan Gary's contract extension is a rare positive moment in this tough season.
The Packers need to focus on building for the future, which could see several players depart before the trade deadline. However, re-signing Gary was the top priority. He is a superstar and a player for the Packers to build around.
On Monday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Gary signed a four-year extension that earns him $96 million in new money.
The 25-year-old has made 4.5 sacks in the opening seven games, which is incredible considering he is returning from a torn ACL and was on a snap count until this past game. He is one of the only Packers defenders consistently getting after opposing quarterbacks.
Getting this deal done is a huge relief for the Packers. The last thing they wanted was a repeat of the Davante Adams contract situation.
Packers fans haven't had many reasons to celebrate this season, but Gary's extension is one of them. Here are some of the best reactions on X (formerly Twitter).
From bust to Packers superstar: Fans react to Rashan Gary massive contract extension
As Packers fans woke up still frustrated with the team's performance against the Minnesota Vikings, there was finally some positive news.
Many called Gary a draft bust back in 2019, but his incredible passion, work ethic, and desire to improve have helped him become one of the league's best pass rushers. The Packers are lucky to have him, and fans have taken to social media to celebrate.
Rashan Gary is the most deserving of this contract extension. The stats speak for themselves, the play on the field don’t lie, but the work ethic & the leadership behind the scenes is what sets him apart & makes him great. It’s what makes him the guy you build a defense around.…
— Perri Goldstein (@perri_goldstein) October 30, 2023
Rashan Gary: from "draft bust" to $100 million man. Love it. Great, positive news.
— Tim Backes (@timbackes) October 30, 2023
ironically, my favorite thing about rashan gary is the fact that not a single player on this roster brings more fire, more competitiveness or more energy than him. his motor was the biggest critique when the packers drafted him — now he’s *the* motor.
— zach jacobson (@itszacharyj) October 30, 2023
Packers are getting Rashan Gary for his prime years of 25-29 at a pretty respectable price.
— Daire Carragher (@DaireCarragher) October 30, 2023
And there’s no way a guy as motivated and success-driven as Gary is going to start easing up on the field or in the gym now that he’s been paid.
Rashan Gary can celebrate his extension by sacking Matthew Stafford 3 times! #GoPackGo
— Justin Amandro (@justin_amandro) October 30, 2023
Gary got a massive deal, but the Packers may be paying less than many expected. As Cheesehead TV's Aaron Nagler points out, this is some more smart salary cap work by Russ Ball.
Good work by Russ Ball as usual. https://t.co/gBTXV79KeC
— Aaron Nagler (@AaronNagler) October 30, 2023
Great news all around. Hopefully, Gary is saving his best career performance for the first on his new deal to help the Packers finally get a win in Week 9.