El Guapo
Cheesehead
I'd like to toot my own horn here (metaphorically speaking of course):The focus of this discussion seems to be about whom should be signed first. I think that we are all overlooking the likelihood that Russ Ball is simultaneously negotiating with both parties, and likely a few others. They aren't singularly focused in the negotiation department at GB Central
http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/9129993/green-bay-packers-deal-clay-matthews-sources
Packers, Clay Matthews near deal
When the deal for Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews gets done this offseason -- and it will -- it will come in at or north of $13 million a year in new money, according to sources.
Matthews, 26, has 42.5 sacks in his four seasons with the Packers, including 13 last season. He has 204 tackles, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions in 58 career games since being drafted 26th overall in the 2009 draft out of USC.
The Packers are also working on an extension for Aaron Rodgers, with sources saying last week the sides are closing in on a long-term deal that would make the quarterback the highest-paid player in NFL history.
Both Rodgers and the Packers are hesitant to comment on a potential extension, but leaguewide speculation is that the deal could average $25 million per year.
Both sides have been extremely careful when publicly commenting on a deal. But those familiar with the contract talks believe a deal will be completed this offseason.
Rodgers was asked about the contract talks in a radio interview Tuesday.
"We'll see what happens here. I don't have an answer for you," he told 102.9 FM in Milwaukee.
A former Super Bowl MVP, Rodgers is under contract through 2014, having signed a six-year, $65 million contract in October 2008. Rodgers' base salary in 2013 is $9.25 million, while his 2014 deal is worth $10.5 million.