Packers fans have been wondering what’s been on Aaron Rodgers mind since general manager Brian Gutekunst selected QB Jordan Love in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft. Rodgers spoke via conference call with reporters Friday afternoon, it was a call that fans could listen to via Packers.com.
As you would expect, Rodgers was not thrilled about the pick but he understands the decision and business of football. “Not gonna say that I was thrilled by the pick, but I understand. The organization is not only thinking about the present but the future, and I respect that. I understand their focus and their mindset,” said Rodgers. He went on to say, “The pick reinforces the adage that you can only control what you can control.”
During the call, Rodgers did express that he is looking forward to working with Love when the team is able to get together. Adding that he did call Jordan Love the day after he was drafted to congratulate him and the two had a great conversation.
Rodgers has been with the Packers organization for 16 seasons, with 13 of them as the teams starting quarterback. The 36 year old still believes that he can play at a high level and did express that he thought he could play until he is 40 years old.
Now, towards the end of the conference call, Rodgers did add that he would like to finish his career with the Packers but that may be out of his control if he decides to play past his current contract, which is through the 2023 season. Packer fans have seen their other legendary quarterback Brett Favre end his career with another team, so it will be nothing new. Let’s not think that far out though.
Rodgers isn’t the athlete that needs a ton of extra motivation, as he also had that chip on this shoulder. From the way that he was talking, there did not seem to be any animosity towards Love, but if there is any, it seems like it was directed towards the organization.
Rodgers has been spending his time during the coronavirus still working out. There is a small group of players in the Southern California area that he has been working out with and throwing to, while getting ready for the potential upcoming season.
He did mention that he is excited to see the development in some of the younger receivers, especially Allen Lazard.
The good news is, Rodgers seems to be taking a different approach then what Favre did when Rodgers was different. It will be an interesting year 2 for Rodgers and LaFleur. With a motivated Rodgers, this team could make another deep post-season run.
Go Pack Go!
Anthony Haag is a writer for PackersTalk.com. He has been a Packers fan since the day he was born and truly bleeds green and gold. He makes annual visits to Lambeau Field and has attended his fair share of games. You can follow Anthony on Twitter at @anthony_haag
