3 Packers Players Green Bay Won't Be Able to Keep Unless Aaron Rodgers Restructures His Contract

The Green Bay Packers have quietly drafted one of the most promising young rosters after picking stars in the first and second rounds over the last few years on both offense and defense. Keeping them could be harder than drafting them, however, as the Packers are saddled with Aaron Rodgers' contract. We're not saying it's a bad thing, but it does limit the team financially.

The future Hall of Famer's deal features a cap hit of at least $21 million for each of the next four seasons. Unless Rodgers restructures his deal, Green Bay could struggle to keep these stars.

3. Elgton Jenkins

Green Bay Packers guard Elgton Jenkins / Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Jenkins was inserted into the starting lineup after a Lane Taylor injury, and the former Mississippi State lineman showed that he can be a reliable starter for the long run. The Packers will need to keep Rodgers upright as they try to contend into his twilight years, but he might need to restrict his deal just a tad if he wants to keep one of his most reliable linemen in the fold. After an outstanding rookie season, the Pack could be interested in extending him within the next couple of years to ensure they get a team-friendly deal.

2. Jaire Alexander

Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander / Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

Alexander has quickly become one of the stickiest cornerbacks in the league despite his slight frame, as his instincts and choppy footwork have him situated as arguably the best corner in the NFC North. As last year proved, Rodgers can win you games as long as he's provided with a defense, and keeping Alexander will help that group stay intact. Parting with him will open up another deep gash at a major weak spot. Alexander is a free agent after next season, but the Packers probably don't want to wait that long to make sure he's under contract.

1. Aaron Jones

Green Bay Packers running back Aaron Jones / Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

Jones gave the Packers a reliable running game for the first time since Ryan Grant and James Starks were behind Rodgers in the I Formation. Jones led the NFL last year with 19 total touchdowns, meaning he should be in line for a huge contract extension. Paying a running back is always a contentious issue, but the Packers need to invest heavily in the talent around Rodgers, and they can't do that if his contract eats up a large chunk of their cap. Jones is a free agent after this season, so the clock is ticking.