Javon Hargrave, Green Bay Packers
Getty
Javon Hargrave #97 of the Minnesota Vikings during warm up before the game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on October 23, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
The Green Bay Packers have had a quiet all-around NFL offseason. Despite losing quite a few key players from the 2025 roster, Brian Gutekunst has only brought in three outside players.
One of those players was former Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Javon Hargrave.
Shortly after his release from the Vikings, the Packers pounced to bring him onboard. They were able to agree to terms on a two-year, $23 million contract.
Hargrave is an intimidating presence on the defensive line. Standing in at 6-foot-2 and 305 pounds, he has a proven track record of stopping the run and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. That is exactly the skill-set that Green Bay needed to find in the middle of its defensive front.
With that being said, Hargrave spoke out about his decision to join the Packers and why he chose Green Bay over other potential suitors.
Javon Hargrave Gets Honest About Signing With Packers
While speaking to longtime Packers reporter Bill Huber of On SI, Hargrave opened up about his thoughts on his new team. One of the big reasons for signing with Green Bay was to reunite with defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon.
“He’s definitely a big reason but also their culture,” Hargrave said. “My whole career, I’ve been with great organizations – not to try to throw shade [at other teams] but historic organizations. Lambeau Field, I feel like it just fit me. And, of course, J.G., man. I love J.G. Great coach and friend. Kept up with him over the years, so that was a big thing, too.”
Hargrave also spoke out with more information about Gannon. His opinion could help some Packers fans unsure about Gannon find more confidence in the new defensive coordinator.
“He’s going to have you ready to go. From the beginning of the week putting in the game plan, he’s going to have you so pumped and amped and ready to go. He’s one of them hyper … you’d think he’s drinking a lot of energy drinks or Red Bull, but that’s just him every day.”
He was then asked about playing with two of Green Bay’s top defenders, Micah Parsons and Devonte Wyatt.
“I’m definitely excited to play with them boys and start the grind,” he said.
What Will Javon Hargrave Bring to the Green Bay Defense?
Last season in Minnesota, the 33-year-old defensive tackle played in 16 games. He racked up 52 tackles to go along with 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
Throughout his entire 10-year NFL career, Hargrave has played in 146 games. He has totaled 432 tackles, 49 sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and eight defended passes.
He has been selected to the Pro Bowl twice in his career as well.
It will be interesting to see what kind of impact Hargrave can have on the Packers’ defense. Gutekunst and the front office clearly believe that he can be a piece that helps make a push towards the Super Bowl in 2026.