When the Green Bay Packers kicked of training camp in preparation for the 2025 NFL season, they had to list several players, including three starters from the 2024 season, on various injured lists. Christian Watson, of course, was expected to miss training camp as he is still recovering from the torn ACL he suffered in Green Bay’s Week 18 game against the Chicago Bears.
But two other names, those of linebacker Quay Walker and offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins, made some fans worry. This is because both Walker and Jenkins are in the midst of contract negotiations with Green Bay. Some wondered if both players were refusing to participate in practices until their matters were settled.
As it turns out, though, both were legitimately injured. And both have returned to practice this week.
Green Bay Packers Center Elgton Jenkins Has Begun Practicing
Jenkins, as fans are aware, was moved from left guard to center this offseason following the Packers’ decision not to re-sign Josh Myers, who subsequently signed with New York Jets. Additionally, Green Bay signed left guard Aaron Banks to a four-year $77 million contract to play Jenkins’ old position, one at which he had made two Pro Bowls.
But Jenkins played center in college and, as fans will remind anyone who asks, has played all five offensive line positions at some point during his NFL career.
That being said, Jenkins was/is concerned that moving to center will affect his future earnings in the NFL. The Packers do not generally give out third contracts, and he currently has two years remaining on his second one. He had hoped that Green Bay would either add another year to his deal, guarantee more of the money, or give him a new extension all together; but the Packers have not done so, and do not appear willing to do any of those things.
Jenkins sat out OTA’s while his representatives discussed his contract with Green Bay.
And when he was placed on the non-football injury list at the start of training camp, many fans thought it was related to his contract.
It wasn’t. Apparently, he was dealing with a back issue.
On Monday, it was reported that, despite not having a new or revised deal, Jenkins has begun practice:
A good sign for the #Packers, as center Elgton Jenkins is coming off the non-football injury list today and will do some individual drills as he ramps back up.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 28, 2025
Jenkins is not taking part in team drills as he needs to build up to that, but the fact he is doing individual drills is a good indication that his ongoing contract negotiations will not affect his participation in training camp.
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