Packers urged to settle things with underrated offensive player, and an NFL coach explains why it really matters

The Green Bay Packers don't have many contract situations to handle after releasing Jaire Alexander. However, there's one discussion left to solve, and it could have an underrated impact for the offense.

Elgton Jenkins is projected to move from left guard to center this season, but he wants a contract adjustment before making the transition.

On ESPN's positional rankings, Jenkins was ninth amongst interior offensive linemen. And that tells you how valuable he can be for the Packers.

"The guy is so underrated," an unnamed NFL coordinator told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. "Can play anywhere, tough, physical, smart."

Fowler highlights that Jenkins was even more effective in his limited sample size at center in 2024. "His pass block win rate was higher at center (96.6) than at guard (92.4)," Fowler wrote. "ESPN attributed two sacks to Jenkins all season, and he added 316 run-block wins."

Jenkins' versatility is his biggest calling card. Since the Packers took him in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, he's played in every position along the offensive line. Left guard had been his home, but he will go back to his college position in 2025.

Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said that the team perceives Jenkins as a potential "All-Pro center," and their offseason plan was built around this. The team allowed center Josh Myers walk in free agency and signed Aaron Banks to play left guard. As a consequence, Jenkins will finally be a full-time center.

The contract question happens because Elgton Jenkins has two years left on his current deal, but there are no more guarantees. He's slated to make $12.8 million in 2025, and the salary jumps to $20 million in 2026. Because guard is more valuable on the market than center, it's particularly relevant for the player to reach a more favorable structure before making the positional move.

On the other hand, Jenkins will be 30 in December. The Packers have little motivation to give an extension beyond that. A middle ground would probably include some extra guarantees or a player-friendlier structure to give Jenkins more financial security, or a better chance to get a solid deal next offseason if the Packers decide not to keep him.