The Green Bay Packers are riding a wave of momentum after back-to-back overtime wins. With the possibility of Aaron Rodgers return, it looks like the Packers have a chance to extend their consecutive playoff streak to 9 straight seasons.

However, I do not believe it’s worth risking your generational QB for a run at the playoffs that will be a longshot (even with Rodgers at the helm). Green Bay’s defense hasn’t proven that it is reliable enough to win against the best teams in the NFL, and they will be down their top 2 Cornerbacks for the remainder of the season. Add to that the difficulty of facing Carolina and Detroit on the road and a home game against Minnesota, and I don’t see how Green Bay is going to win their final three games.

Steve Young, Troy Aikman, and Tony Romo (even RG3) had their careers ended early because there wasn’t a coach with the courage to tell them not to play hurt. My opinion is that if Rodgers re-injures the same collarbone, it will likely be a detriment for the remainder of his career.
So the question becomes, is that risk to Rodgers permanent health greater than the benefit of the chance this team can make the playoffs? I just don’t see how any rationale fan can say, “yeah, this looks like a team that has any chance to beat their next three opponents.”

Regardless of my opinion, the Packers are going to accommodate the wishes of their franchise Quarterback when he is medically cleared this week. They will try to make a push for the playoffs, but I know my heart is going to flutter every time #12 drops back to pass. The future of the Packers will rely on 13 screws and a freshly healed clavicle.

Andrew Mertig is a a lifelong Packers fan and draft enthusiast. He has covered the NFL draft for radio and television stations in Green Bay. He is currently a host of the Pack-A-Day podcast and a writer for PackersTalk.com. You can follow him on Twitter @andrewmertig