Another Big Payday For Driver » Brats & Beer

August 6, 2007
posted under: Donald Driver, Javon Walker, Packers, Ted Thompson

Packers general manager Ted Thompson decided to play Santa Claus a little early this year by signing Donald Driver to a new contract extension. According to the Journal Sentinel, the new deal adds about $11 million to Driver’s existing contract, most of which will come in the extra year added to the agreement. It does put a little extra cash in the veteran wide receiver’s pocket this year, though: Driver’s salary and bonuses for 2007 will increase from $2.7 to $4.3 million.

While it’s certainly not unusual to reward star veterans after they have a Pro Bowl year, this is pretty unprecedented for the Packers considering they gave Driver a new contract just last year. Green Bay at the time had just traded disgruntled wideout Javon Walker to Denver and wanted to lock in their remaining veteran receiver. (I think TT also wanted to show everyone he’s willing to open the checkbook, but only for players who don’t threaten to holdout or demand to be traded.) But by doubling-down, so to speak, with Driver, the Packers have basically guaranteed he’ll end his career in a Green Bay uniform.

Obviously Driver has earned the money — you can’t find a more quality individual — so I have no problem with his getting a new deal, but unfortunately it doesn’t look like TT is going to use any of that money he’s been hoarding to fill some of the real holes on the roster at running back, tight end, and safety. At least not this year anyway.