Packers Sign DL Javon Hargrave to 2-Year Deal

New contract includes $10.5 million signing bonus and potential out in 2027

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:50pm

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The Green Bay Packers have signed veteran defensive lineman Javon Hargrave to a two-year, $23 million contract that includes a $10.5 million signing bonus. The deal features a $3 million roster bonus due in 2027, giving the Packers a potential out after the first year.

Why it matters

Hargrave is a proven veteran who should bolster the Packers' defensive line, but the contract structure gives the team flexibility to move on after 2026 if needed. This signing is part of Green Bay's efforts to retool its roster and remain competitive in the NFC North.

The details

Hargrave's new contract has a low first-year cap hit of $7.7 million, but his cap number balloons to $15.25 million in 2027. The Packers can save $10 million on the cap by releasing Hargrave that year. He is set to make $13 million in cash in 2026.

  • Hargrave signed the two-year deal on March 17, 2026.
  • The $3 million roster bonus is due in 2027.

The players

Javon Hargrave

A 33-year-old defensive lineman who was recently released by the Minnesota Vikings.

Green Bay Packers

An NFL team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin that competes in the NFC North division.

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What they’re saying

“This deal will end up being nothing more than a one-year, $13 million pact considering the player's age and the potential savings come 2027.”

— Ken Ingalls, NFL contract analyst

What’s next

The Packers will have to decide in 2027 whether to pay Hargrave's $3 million roster bonus or move on from the veteran defensive lineman.

The takeaway

The Packers have added a proven veteran to their defensive line, but structured the contract in a way that gives them flexibility to move on after the first year if needed. This signing is part of Green Bay's efforts to retool its roster and remain competitive in the NFC North.