PACKERS BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE: Coach LaFleur Eyes Long-Term Deal for Breakout OL Zach Tom Worth $25M

In Green Bay, it’s not just about tradition—it’s about securing the future. And under the leadership of head coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers are doing just that. The latest sign of their long-term vision? The team is reportedly in active discussions to lock in rising offensive lineman Zach Tom with a lucrative $25 million contract extension.

Tom, who emerged as a vital cog in the Packers’ offensive front during the 2023 season, is widely seen as one of the most promising young linemen in the league. His potential new deal not only underscores his value but also highlights Green Bay’s commitment to fortifying their roster with homegrown talent.

Drafted in the fourth round in 2022 out of Wake Forest, Tom has developed at a remarkable pace. Initially viewed as a versatile depth piece, he swiftly proved he belonged in a starting role. In 2023, Tom started all 17 games, protecting quarterback Jordan Love’s blind side with consistency and grit. His ability to play multiple positions across the line has made him a crucial asset in LaFleur’s zone-blocking scheme.

Pro Football Focus graded Tom among the top pass-blocking tackles in the NFC last season, an achievement that drew the attention of fans and front offices alike. His footwork, awareness, and football IQ have made him one of the most underrated young linemen in the NFL—until now.

The Packers are reportedly structuring the deal to include guaranteed money and incentives that reward durability and performance. The $25 million figure is seen as a middle ground that offers security for Tom while giving the franchise financial flexibility to build around their young quarterback and emerging core.

Green Bay is known for shrewd contract management, and this deal reflects that. With escalating prices for offensive linemen around the league, securing Tom now is both strategic and forward-thinking. If he continues to develop, this extension could become a bargain by league standards in just a couple of years.

This move fits into a broader vision LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst have been shaping over the past two seasons. After the departure of franchise icon Aaron Rodgers, the Packers shifted into a retooling mode centered on youth, athleticism, and versatility. That pivot paid off in 2023, when the team made a surprising playoff run and gave fans renewed hope.

Players like Tom, Christian Watson, Quay Walker, and, of course, Jordan Love are now considered pillars of this new era. Locking in Tom is not just about protecting Love—it’s about setting a tone. LaFleur wants players who buy in, work hard, and embody the Green Bay ethos. Tom checks every box.

Word of the potential extension has reportedly created a wave of optimism in the Packers’ locker room. “Zach’s one of the most respected guys on the team,” said running back Aaron Jones. “Nobody outworks him. He deserves every dollar.”

While the deal isn’t finalized yet, insiders suggest it could be announced before training camp begins in July. That timeline would give the team a boost of momentum heading into a pivotal season. Tom’s camp is reportedly aligned with the team’s goals, and both sides are motivated to get it done.

Expect the contract to include a combination of signing bonus, base salary escalations, and performance clauses—standard structure for players entering their second contract. But make no mistake: this isn’t just a business transaction. It’s a statement.