Packers’ Elgton Jenkins Skips Workouts Amid Contract Dispute as Position Change Fuels Tension
Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins is at the center of a growing contract dispute that has seen the two-time Pro Bowler skip team workouts this offseason. The ongoing impasse stems from Jenkins’ transition from left guard to center for the upcoming 2025 NFL season—a move he believes justifies improved financial terms on his current deal.
Jenkins, 28, originally signed a lucrative four-year, $68 million contract with the Packers in 2022. While that deal made him one of the highest-paid guards in the league at the time, the contract included no guaranteed money beyond the signing bonus. As he approaches the third year of the agreement, Jenkins faces a unique challenge: despite the sizable total value, the lack of guarantees leaves him vulnerable to significant financial uncertainty.
The position switch to center is central to the current tension. Traditionally, centers command a premium salary given their critical role in offensive line communication and snap accuracy. Jenkins, who has proven versatility across the line, is now pushing for a contract that reflects the increased responsibility and value he brings in his new role.
Currently, Jenkins’ salary ranks him tied for second-highest paid center in the NFL at $17 million annually, alongside Philadelphia’s Cam Jurgens, and just behind Kansas City’s Creed Humphrey. However, without guaranteed money, Jenkins’ camp argues his contract does not match the security or market value befitting his new position.
The Packers’ front office has been firm in their stance. General Manager Brian Gutekunst has publicly voiced confidence in Jenkins’ ability to adapt and thrive at center, pointing to the player’s versatility as a significant asset. However, Gutekunst has historically been cautious about renegotiating contracts when multiple years remain, emphasizing roster flexibility and salary cap management.
This offseason, the Packers made waves by signing guard Aaron Banks to a four-year, $77 million contract and drafting rookies Anthony Belton and John Williams to bolster the offensive line depth. These moves indicate the team’s intent to build a strong and versatile front line but also suggest that the Packers are preparing to move cautiously in contract renegotiations.
Jenkins’ decision to skip workouts signals growing frustration. His absence from voluntary offseason programs could have ripple effects on offensive line cohesion as the Packers prepare for the upcoming preseason games against the New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, and Seattle Seahawks.
For the Packers, a well-functioning offensive line is crucial to protect quarterback Jordan Love and establish a potent rushing attack. Any disruption to the unit’s chemistry could have serious implications for the team’s aspirations in a competitive NFC North division.
Analysts note that contract disputes between players and teams are not uncommon, especially when positional changes occur mid-contract. However, the timing—right before training camp and preseason—adds pressure to both sides to reach an agreement swiftly.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Packers face a delicate balancing act: meeting Jenkins’ demands to retain a core player and maintain offensive line stability, while managing salary cap realities and roster construction. Fans and league observers will be watching closely to see if the two sides can find common ground or if the impasse will deepen, potentially impacting the Packers’ season outlook.
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