The Green Bay Packers are bolstering their defensive line with a familiar face, former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave. Set to join on a two-year deal, this move was announced on March 11.
After trading Colby Wooden to the Indianapolis Colts for linebacker Zaire Franklin, the Packers needed to reinforce their front line. They're also bringing back Jonathan Ford to add more depth.
Hargrave was released by the Vikings as they looked to clear salary-cap space, despite him heading into the final year of his contract.
Getting to Know Javon Hargrave
Age and Physical Stats
At 33, Hargrave becomes the oldest player on the Packers' roster, just behind kicker Brandon McManus, who is 34. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 307 pounds, he brings both experience and size to the team.
College Days
Hailing from North Carolina, Hargrave played college football at South Carolina State, a Division I FCS school. He was twice named first-team All-MEAC, catching the eye of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who drafted him in the third round of the 2016 draft.
NFL Journey and Stats
Hargrave's NFL journey began with the Steelers (2016-2019), followed by stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and most recently, the Vikings. He's been selected for the Pro Bowl twice and boasts 49 career sacks, five forced fumbles, eight pass deflections, a defensive touchdown, and 432 tackles.
His playoff experience is notable, having played in two consecutive Super Bowls with Philadelphia and San Francisco, both times facing the Kansas City Chiefs. His performances included standout stats, such as a sack and fumble recovery in the second Super Bowl.
With Philadelphia, Hargrave thrived under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, now with the Packers. In 2022, he achieved a career-high 11 sacks. Last year with Minnesota, he recorded 3½ sacks, a forced fumble, and a recovery over 16 games.
The Contract
The reported deal with the Packers is valued at two years and $23 million, according to ESPN.
Nickname and Legacy
Hargrave goes by "Gravedigger," a nickname that resonates with Packers fans, recalling former star Gilbert Brown. This moniker, given by his college coach, ties back to both his play style and his name.
Born on February 7, 1993, Hargrave shares a connection with Brown, who was drafted just months after Hargrave's birth. Interestingly, Brown was also initially a Viking before making his mark with the Packers. It seems the Packers have a knack for picking up talented "Gravediggers" from Minnesota.