Mandarich Ends Holdout, Joins Packers
Tony Mandarich ended his 45-day holdout Tuesday, signing a $4.4-million, four-year contract with the Green Bay Packers, which includes a $2-million signing bonus.
Mandarich, the No. 2 selection in last April’s draft, missed all of training camp because of his contract dispute. He initially asked for $2 million per season but lowered his asking price to $1.4 million.
“I think the number was $1.25 (million),” Mandarich said. “That was always the number. I came out saying $2 million, but what am I stupid? I know I’m not going to get $2 million, especially playing offensive lineman.
“We bent and they bent and we met at 1.1 and I’m happy with it.”
Green Bay vice president Tom Braatz said the Packers paid Mandarich “what the market is right now.” He admitted the contract could have an effect for some time to come.
“If we don’t change the system in the NFL, it will affect next year’s rookies,” Braatz said.
Coach Lindy Infante said he didn’t have a timetable for getting Mandarich ready and admitted it would be difficult.
Get our high school sports newsletter
Prep Rally is devoted to the SoCal high school sports experience, bringing you scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
