He Chose Green Bay: Packers Veteran Rejects $40M Deal with Bears, Signs $33M Contract to Stay

Green Bay, Wisconsin – The Green Bay Packers have secured a key victory in the 2026 offseason by retaining one of their most important pillars. Center/Guard Sean Rhyan, who had a breakout season at center in 2025, decided to stay with Green Bay rather than join the Chicago Bears, where he received a reported offer worth $40 million.

However, Rhyan chose to remain with the Packers, signing a three-year contract extension worth $33 million (with a maximum value of $39 million), along with an $11 million signing bonus. This decision not only reflects Rhyan’s commitment to the team but also solidifies his importance in protecting the future of the Packers’ quarterback, Jordan Love.

“Bears offered a great deal, but Green Bay is where I want to continue my career,” Rhyan shared. “This is where I’ve built relationships, and I believe in the future of this team. We have something special here, and I’m not ready to walk away from that.”

Rhyan’s Impressive Performance in Green Bay

Rhyan joined the Packers in 2022 as a third-round pick in the NFL Draft, and although he was initially expected to be a backup, an injury to Elgton Jenkins allowed Rhyan to step up. In the 2025 season, he was tasked with the center position and excelled, helping protect Jordan Love and creating opportunities for the Packers’ offense to operate efficiently.

With the ability to play both guard and center, Rhyan became an integral piece of the team, ensuring stability along the Packers' offensive line. Throughout the 2025 season, Rhyan allowed just one sack in his matchups and played a key role in the team’s victories, particularly in crucial games late in the season.

Why He Chose Green Bay

Although the Bears presented a financially enticing offer, Rhyan emphasized that his decision to stay with Green Bay was not solely about money but also a strategic move for the long-term.  “The Bears offered a higher salary, but Green Bay is the place I want to stay. We’ve built a solid offensive line here. I want to stay to continue protecting Jordan Love, leading the young O-line, and building a long-term legacy here – the place where I was drafted and grew up.”

Rhyan Will Be Key in Protecting Jordan Love

With his new contract, Rhyan not only continues his career in Green Bay but also becomes a vital part of the effort to protect Jordan Love, the team’s future quarterback. The Packers are in the process of building a strong roster around Love, and Rhyan will play an essential role in fortifying the offensive line, ensuring Love has the time and protection to reach his potential.

Conclusion

The Green Bay Packers have successfully retained one of the team’s key contributors, and Sean Rhyan has shown that loyalty and commitment to the team matter more than any financial incentive. With his new deal, Rhyan will continue to be an indispensable part of the Packers’ offensive line, protecting Jordan Love and helping the team strive for success in the seasons to come.