Jazz rumors: Walker Kessler unhappy with historic $140 million contract offer

The Utah Jazz and center Walker Kessler remain far apart in contract negotiations despite the franchise reportedly putting a historic extension offer on the table.

According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, the Jazz offered Kessler a deal worth roughly $140 million over five years, but the two sides have yet to reach an agreement as the former first-round pick approaches restricted free agency.

“A gulf remains between restricted free agent center Walker Kessler and the Jazz after Utah put an offer worth roughly $140 million over five years on the table, sources told ESPN,” MacMahon wrote.

The reported offer would be unprecedented for a player in Kessler’s position.

“It would be the largest contract ever given to a center who had yet to be an All-Star,” MacMahon added.

Despite the apparent disagreement, Utah still holds significant leverage. As a restricted free agent, Kessler can negotiate with other teams, but the Jazz retain the right to match any offer sheet he signs.

The situation adds another layer of intrigue to an important offseason for a Jazz franchise attempting to build around a young core while navigating several contract decisions.

Kessler has established himself as one of the league’s most productive young defensive centers since entering the NBA. Before suffering a torn labrum in his left shoulder that required surgery, the 24-year-old averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.8 blocks and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 70.3 percent from the field through the opening five games of the 2025-26 season.

Walker Kessler isn’t the only Jazz player facing contract uncertainty

The uncertainty surrounding Kessler is not the only contract issue facing Utah.

MacMahon also reported that there is skepticism around whether the Jazz will reach a rookie-scale extension with guard Keyonte George despite the organization’s belief that he remains a cornerstone piece moving forward.

“Sources also expressed doubt that the Jazz would reach an agreement on a rookie contract extension with guard Keyonte George despite the franchise’s optimism that he will play a key role in Utah’s future after his breakout third season,” MacMahon wrote.

George took a significant step forward during the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 23.6 points and 6.1 assists while posting a .609 true shooting percentage. However, MacMahon reported that Utah’s front office wants to see another season of sustained production before committing to a contract approaching the rookie maximum.

“As is the case with Kessler, the Jazz don’t mind allowing a foundation player to enter restricted free agency if an extension isn’t reached.”

For now, Kessler’s contract situation remains one of the most closely watched storylines in Utah. While a five-year, $140 million offer would represent a record-setting deal for a non-All-Star center, it has not been enough to bridge the gap between the Jazz and one of their most important young players.

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