​Packers double down on defense, extend Isaiah McDuffie originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Green Bay Packers have secured one of their key defensive contributors for the foreseeable future, signing veteran linebacker Isaiah McDuffie to a contract extension on Monday.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile the team did not disclose financial terms, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that the deal is a one-year extension worth $8.8 million over the next two seasons and includes up to $1 million in play-time incentives. The agreement keeps McDuffie from reaching unrestricted free agency after the 2026 season and rewards a player who has steadily earned a larger role in Green Bay’s defense.McDuffie, who turns 27 later this month, enjoyed one of the best seasons of his NFL career in 2025. He appeared in all 17 regular-season games, making 12 starts while recording a career-high 92 tackles, one sack and one interception. He also remained a valuable special teams contributor, logging a career-best 302 special teams snaps in addition to 505 defensive snaps.Originally selected by the Packers in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Boston College, McDuffie has developed from a late-round pick into a dependable member of Green Bay’s linebacker rotation. Through five NFL seasons, he has totaled 320 tackles in 80 regular-season games while adding 21 tackles in five postseason appearances.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe extension reflects Green Bay’s continued commitment to rewarding homegrown talent. General manager Brian Gutekunst has consistently prioritized retaining players who have developed within the organization, and McDuffie fits that mold after carving out roles on both defense and special teams.McDuffie’s versatility and experience provide valuable depth for defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game has made him a trusted piece of the Packers’ defense.By locking up McDuffie before the start of the 2026 season, Green Bay ensures another experienced leader remains in the fold as the Packers continue building a defense capable of competing for a championship.More NFL news:AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWashington Commanders announce next player to have his number retiredTom Brady slams Raiders after poor 2025 season: ‘Everybody needs to improve’49ers’ George Kittle issues warning to teams interested in Brandon AiyukAll-Pro defender named potential cut candidate for Pittsburgh SteelersBroncos’ Bo Nix provides encouraging update amid right ankle recovery