As the Green Bay Packers prepare for the offseason following their NFC wild-card playoff loss, they will face a significant change in their coaching staff. Longtime quarterback coach and offensive strategist Tom Clements has announced his retirement at the age of 71.
Clements, a well-respected figure in NFL circles, leaves behind a legacy that spans decades of coaching some of the league’s top quarterbacks. The Packers confirmed his retirement on Tuesday, marking the end of an illustrious career that included two stints in Green Bay and contributions to multiple other franchises.
### A Career of Mentorship and Success
During his first tenure with the Packers from 2006 to 2016, Clements played a pivotal role in guiding two of the franchise’s legendary quarterbacks, Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers. Over those years, he served as Green Bay’s offensive coordinator for three seasons and held the title of assistant head coach for two additional years.
After stepping away from football for a season, Clements returned to the Packers in 2022, this time tasked with developing Jordan Love, the team’s starting quarterback since 2023. His coaching influence has been felt across generations of players, and his absence will leave a significant void in Green Bay’s coaching staff.
Head coach Matt LaFleur expressed his gratitude for Clements’ impact.
“Man, it’s been a cool ride with him for the last three years,” LaFleur said. “Talk about Favre, Rodgers, and then the development of Jordan Love—that’s pretty cool. I know he’s meant a lot to this organization. His contributions will definitely be missed. I can’t say enough great things about him. I really appreciate him.”
### A Legacy Born from Experience
Clements’ football journey began during his college years at Notre Dame, where he played quarterback from 1972-74. He was instrumental in leading the Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1973. Following his collegiate success, Clements pursued a professional playing career, spending most of his time in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
His transition into coaching began in 1992 when he returned to Notre Dame as a quarterbacks coach. This role led to opportunities in the NFL, where he served on coaching staffs for the New Orleans Saints, Kansas City Chiefs, and Pittsburgh Steelers. Clements also worked as the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills in 2004 and 2005 before joining Green Bay for his first stint.
### The Challenge Ahead for Green Bay
While the Packers have yet to name a successor to Clements, the new quarterback coach will inherit a crucial responsibility: continuing the development of Jordan Love. The Packers have made a significant investment in their young quarterback, who signed a four-year, $220 million contract extension before the 2024 season.
Love showed promise during the 2023 season, helping the Packers reach the NFC divisional round. However, his performance in 2024 was inconsistent, culminating in a disappointing wild-card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. In that game, Love completed 20 of 33 passes for 212 yards but threw three costly interceptions as the Packers fell 22-10.
Head coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged that there is room for improvement, not just for Love but for the entire team.
“Do I think he can play better? Absolutely,” LaFleur said. “Do I think I can help him out and be better? Absolutely. Do I think we can play better around him? Absolutely. I just think it’s too much to put it on one person. I really do. I think collectively, we have to be better, and I expect better.”
LaFleur also emphasized the importance of Love taking on a more vocal leadership role as the team moves forward. The Packers will need strong leadership and a united effort to overcome the challenges of the upcoming season, especially after ending the 2024 campaign with three consecutive losses, including the playoffs.
As Green Bay navigates the offseason, they’ll not only focus on improving their roster but also on finding the right candidate to build on Tom Clements’ legacy. His impact on the Packers and the NFL will be remembered as the team embarks on the next chapter of their storied history.
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