Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered what is likely a season-ending injury after he took a hit from Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr in last week’s game.
As a result of the tackle, Rodgers suffered a broken collarbone and underwent surgery on Thursday. Since the devastating injury, Barr has taken a bunch of heat from what many, including Packers head coach Mike McCarthy, believed was dirty play on his end.
Barr shared his feelings on the tackle Friday, via Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
“By no means was I trying or take out Aaron Rodgers He’s one of, if not the best player in this league I’m not a dirty player. I don’t play dirty. We don’t preach that around here. It’s unfortunate, the injury. I hate to see anybody get hurt.
“I think it’s a dirty play in some people’s eyes because of the injury I think if he gets up we’re not having this conversation. It’s unfortunate it happened. I know I think I hit Jameis (Winston) similar early in the season and nobody mentioned it.
“I wish him a speedy recovery. One of my favorite players to compete against, to play against. I got the utmost respect for (Rodgers) and the whole entire Packers organization. So I would never try to injure anybody.”
Things are always especially touchy when it comes to a star player going down for the season due to an injury. This is only magnified by the fact that we are taking about a future Hall of Fame quarterback.
Plus, Rodgers’ absence helps provide an advantage to Barr’s Vikings, who have an easier time of climbing up the ranks in the NFC North.
It is big of Barr to speak out and also share his thoughts about injuring Rodgers. Unfortunately, injuries are a part of professional football, and all players involved take a gamble with their health on a weekly basis. For what it’s worth, the NFL has reportedly not issued a fine for Barr’s hit on Rodgers, which further solidifies his argument.