Green Bay Packers’ wide receiver Jordy Nelson has earned his stripes and a pay raise. Everyone in Wisconsin knew it was a matter of when not if, as to locking up Nelson on a contract extension. Cheeseheads woke up Saturday morning with cartoons and some great news.
Jordy Nelson and Aaron Rodgers fist pump after another touchdown.The deal is worth $39 million for four years. Nelson reportedly asked for $10 million per season and he got what he wanted. The extension includes an $11.5 million signing bonus and $14.2 million guaranteed, confirmed by CBS Sports Insider Jason La Confora and first reported by NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport.
Playing catch with Aaron Rodgers must be fun, but he’s worked hard and progressed every year. Being drafted in the second round in 2008, Nelson learned the ropes under Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, and James Jones. It’s no coincidence; Nelson is the only one left.
Now at 29 years old, coming off his best season with 85 catches for 1,314 yards and eight touchdowns, he is regarded as the number one target for A-Rod. Their back shoulder fade along the sideline is a thing of beauty.
Nelson is the number two receiver according to Football Outsider’s efficiency metric after last season. He led the league in 2011 with 15 touchdowns. Yet, Jordy Nelson has “quietly” become one of the league’s best receivers. Instead of bursting onto the scene, he’s producing and progressing everyday.
Nelson’s deceptive speed, sharp route-running, strong stiff arm, and hands as soft as pillows are just a few qualities that make him very close to elite. What makes him stand out is the clutch gene. We saw it in Super Bowl XLV as he not only stepped in for an injured Donald Driver, but made key plays in the fourth quarter. If not for Jordy, we’d still be waiting for the trophy.
Bottom line; he’s an old school Packer. Green Bay loves to keep their hometown heroes. And his new contract is well deserved.
Congrats Jordy!
Randall Cobb, you’re next.