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The biggest storyline of the NFL offseason is whether or not Aaron Rodgers suits up for the Green Bay Packers this fall. As the drama keeps unfolding between the two sides, many around the NFL think they know where the situation is headed.
Rodgers asked for a contract extension at the start of the offseason, seeking a guarantee he would remain the Packers’ starting quarterback for the next few seasons. When Green Bay declined, he asked for a trade and opened the door for tensions between the two sides to go public.
As reports surfaced of potential trade destinations, rumors followed. Rodgers’ issue with the Packers was tied to the organization, with criticism directed toward general manager Brian Gutekunst and CEO Mark Murphy. While Gutekunst privately attempts to resolve the issues, Murphy has taken public shots at the face of the franchise.
Rodgers skipped minicamp for the first time and isn’t expected to report for the start of training camp. Not only would it result in daily fines for the reigning NFL MVP, but it would further signal his desire to stay away from the Packers. But, despite everything going on, many around the NFL thinks all of this ends positively for the Packers.
“People around the league expect him to be in Green Bay. Because at the end of the day, they believe the Packers have the leverage and not Aaron Rodgers. Front office execs say the Packers should hold firm, not trade him because he’s so good.”
ESPN’s Kimberly A. Martin on Aaron Rodgers future
For weeks, there was little consensus regarding Rodgers’ future in Green Bay. Reports made it clear he still wants out. Meanwhile, Rodgers’ former teammates to Packers’ insiders, beat writers and the club’s former general manager all weighed in on the drama and the 37-year-old’s future.
While Rodgers has largely stayed quiet since news broke of his trade request, he has spoken to close friends and teammates. Which makes star wide receiver Davante Adams’ recent insight noteworthy.
Adams told Fox News that he and his teammates continue supporting their quarterback and added that everyone in the locker room will love Rodgers when he returns. The specific wording, saying when the All-Pro passer returns, is another indicator many see that three-time MVP returns.
“Davante Adams saying when, when he returns. That to me, he’s putting a timeline on it. It is ambiguous, but at the end of the day, the guys aren’t worried because they expect Aaron Rodgers to be back.”
Kimberly A, Martin on Green Bay Packers’ players expectations with Aaron Rodgers
For now, the expectation is Aaron Rodgers sits out the beginning of training camp in an effort to gain leverage. Given he would forego more than $30 million by sitting out the entire 2021 season and it would cost him a crucial year in his playing career, it would be surprising if he isn’t playing this fall.
