Packers defensive standout named Top 50 player in NFL by fellow players

After a breakout season, a Green Bay Packers veteran has been ranked among the best players in the National Football League.

While most eyes have been on Packers quarterback Jordan Love and his massive contract extension , defensive end Rashan Gary also earned an extension. And if a recent ranking is to be believed, his peers in the NFL think he deserves it.

In NFL.com's list of the Top 100 players of 2024 , which is voted on by players currently in the NFL, the two-time first-team All-Big Ten linebacker (2017, 2018) debuted at No. 50 after missing the 2022 season due to an injury.

"Playing on the fifth year of his rookie contract and making his return from an ACL injury that cut short what looked to be a breakout 2022, Gary had something to prove in 2023," Coral Smith said.

"Highlighted by his first three-sack performance in Week 3, Gary showed enough by the end of October for the Packers to reward him with a four-year, $96 million extension. Gary finished the season as the team leader in sacks (nine) and QB hits (22)."

In his six years with the Packers, Gary has recorded 179 total tackles, 31.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and four pass deflections.

Gary has proven to be a necessary part of the Packers' defense. And if last season was any indication, he'll move up even higher on the list in no time.

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