Veteran Coach Tom Clements Retires After Pivotal Role with Green Bay Packers
Tom Clements, a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers’ coaching staff, is stepping away from the gridiron. At 71, the revered coach is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of influential coaching that spans several decades and numerous high-profile roles.
Clements first joined the ranks of the Packers in 2006 as their quarterbacks coach. His early tenure was marked by guiding legendary quarterback Brett Favre in what were the final two seasons of Favre's storied career in Green Bay. During these years, Clements’ expertise and steady hand helped steer the team through a pivotal transitional phase.
Following his initial success, Clements was promoted to offensive coordinator, a position he held from 2012 to 2014. It was under his strategic direction that the Packers' offense became one of the NFL's most formidable units. His knack for optimizing player performance and crafting dynamic offensive plays was evident during these years.
In 2016, Clements transitioned into the role of associate head coach. His tenure in this position reaffirmed his invaluable presence within the organization. The Packers capitalized on his vast experience and tactical prowess until his departure, after which Clements took a step back from coaching. However, this hiatus was short-lived as he returned to the Packers in 2022, once again as the quarterbacks coach. This time, it was at the behest of Aaron Rodgers, the Packers’ star quarterback who appreciated Clements' discerning eye and motivational leadership.
Head coach Matt LaFleur spoke highly of Clements, highlighting his influential relationships with iconic quarterbacks. "Tom Clements is going to retire. Man, it's been a cool ride with him for the last three years,” LaFleur said. “He's incredibly consistent. What a great man, great mind. Obviously, he's had the opportunity to coach some of the best. I mean, when you talk about [Brett] Favre, [Aaron] Rodgers, and then the development of Jordan Love, I mean, that's pretty cool. I know he's meant a lot to this organization and his contributions. He will definitely be missed. I just can't say enough great things about him. Really appreciate him."
Amid celebrated players like Favre and Rodgers, Clements’ recent stint saw another quarterback come into focus—Jordan Love. Since his entry into the league, Love has flourished, setting a record with 57 passing touchdowns in his first two seasons under Clements’ mentorship. His impressive postseason performance against the Dallas Cowboys in 2023 further solidified his budding legacy. Crucial to this development has been the guidance and strategic input from Clements.
Love's trajectory thus far has been underpinned by his hefty four-year contract with the Packers, valued at $220 million, reflecting the team's confidence in his abilities and potential as a franchise quarterback.
The retirement of Tom Clements marks an end to a significant chapter in the Packers’ coaching lineage. His departure leaves a vacuum, not just in his role but in the hearts of those he mentored and worked with across years of dedicated service. As Matt LaFleur pondered the future, he succinctly put it, "We'll see what happens." This pithy sentiment underscores the uncertainty yet hopeful anticipation for what lies ahead for the Packers and their resilient coaching team.
Clements' enduring impact on the Packers and the broader NFL is undeniable. His retirement closes the book on an impressive career but opens another for those he has influenced with his wisdom and leadership. As Green Bay continues to forge its path forward, Tom Clements’ legacy will remain a touchstone of inspiration and excellence.