More than 12 years after the Green Bay Packers traded Brett Favre to the New York Jets and handed the franchise over to Aaron Rodgers, many around the NFL reportedly expect history to repeat itself in 2023.
Rodgers, the four-time NFL MVP, hasn’t committed to playing football next season. However, the Packers seem prepared to move on and it seems their franchise quarterback got the message. As he evaluates his option, early NFL trade rumors are flying about what could unfold this spring.
- Aaron Rodgers contract: $31.62 million cap hit in 2023
Despite coming off one of the worst seasons in his career, there are NFL teams interested in Rodgers. The Jets and Las Vegas Raiders are the early favorites to acquire the future Hall of Famer, but the list of suitors could expand if Rodgers commits to playing football next year.
Related: Aaron Rodgers trade may include conditions required by teams
Green Bay finds itself in a different position than it was a year ago. The Packers went all-in with Rodgers, making him one of the highest-paid NFL quarterbacks on a multi-year extension. In the following months, the coaching staff grew far more confident in Jordan Love and missing the playoffs sparked a growing belief that the roster will be overhauled this spring.
- Aaron Rodgers career stats: 103.6 QB rating, 59,055 pass yards, 475 passing touchdowns
Owed $60 million guaranteed, the 10-time Pro Bowl selection already acknowledged he’s willing to adjust his contract next season. Paired with recent comments on the Pat McAfee Show, it seems likely that Rodgers will play football next season.
Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team spoke with multiple NFL executives at the Senior Bowl and there is a strong belief around the league that he and the Packers will agree it’s time for a trade.
Related: Latest on New York Jets’ pursuit of Aaron Rodgers
Trading Rodgers won’t necessarily be easy. ESPN previously reported that Green Bay only wants to trade him to an AFC team. Furthermore, teams interested have concerns about his long-term commitment to football after contemplating retirement in each of the past three offseasons.
Even with the restrictions and concerns, there will be enough suitors seeking a franchise-caliber quarterback to generate a strong return for the Packers. While there are mixed reports on the potential return, any deal would likely need to include a first-round pick.
Related: Davante Adams courted Aaron Rodgers at Pro Bowl
If Rodgers is traded, the Packers will move forward with Love and could exercise his fifth-year option for the 2024 season. He would then become the unquestioned starter, operating an offense with one of the best offensive lines in the NFC and an emerging cast of weapons at wide receiver.