When it seemed like Johnny Hekker could be on his way out of Los Angeles, the All-Pro punter agreed to restructure his contract to stay with the Rams. The team then traded Corey Bojorquez to the Packers, fully committing to Hekker as the starting punter moving forward.
Field Yates of ESPN reported details of Hekker’s reworked deal on Monday, showing exactly what went into the move and the implications that come with it. It appears Hekker took a pay cut to remain with the Rams, lowering his possible earnings in each of the next three years.
Before restructuring, Hekker’s base salaries were $3.75 million this year, $4 million in 2022 and $4.25 million in 2023. Now, Hekker can earn up to $2.75 million in 2021 and 2022, and $3 million in 2023.
This saves the Rams $1 million in 2021 and allows Hekker to void the final year of his deal in 2023, which would make him a free agent if he wants to go that route.
As part of his reworked deal, Rams P Johnny Hekker can now make up to $2.75M in 2021 and 2022 and up to $3M in 2023.
The move clears ~$1M in cap space for LA, while Hekker now has the chance to void the 2023 year in his deal and pursue free agency a year early if desired.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 6, 2021
Hekker has been a leader for the Rams throughout his career and was voted a captain once again this year. It’s moves like this that make him a fan favorite and a strong presence in the locker room.
In his first media session after final roster cuts, Hekker said he was appreciative of the Rams for working with him on his contract to keep him in L.A.
“It meant a lot. It’s something that I’m definitely very thankful for. And looking back, I’m humble for the opportunity to come back,” he said. “To feel appreciated and wanted back here means a lot, especially with a talented guy like Corey, being able to get him traded to a place where he’s going to have a great impact in Green Bay.”
It helps that Hekker is one of the best punters in the NFL. And hopefully with Joe DeCamillis taking over as the special teams coordinator, the Rams attempt more trick plays this season with Hekker by utilizing his arm after he didn’t attempt a single pass last year.
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