The Lass Word: Three Mysterious Months

How did Rodgers "beautiful mystery" take such an ugly turn in the last 90 days?

On January 26th, Aaron Rodgers told the Pat McAfee show “I don’t think that there is any reason why I wouldn’t be back.”  That was just over three months ago.  Three short months.  Now he reportedly says he’s never playing for the Packers again.  What the heck happened?  

 

The only new development during that time was his contract negotiation.  Is that ultimately what this is about?  The team has apparently offered a restructure, a guarantee and a raise, basically everything he wanted.  The offer was reportedly turned down.  There must be something else.  Some tipping point event.  Something we will probably never know, until Rodgers writes his book.   

 

In the meantime, I can’t help pondering: 

 

►  Would it really have made a difference if the Packers had informed Rodgers in advance that they might draft his successor?  How exactly would that conversation go?  “Hello Aaron?  Gutey here.  Just wanted to let you know that if a good quarterback happens to drop to the mid twenties in the first round of the draft tonight, we’re going to trade up and take him.  He will eventually replace you.  Okay, that’s about it.  Have a nice day.” 

 

Would Rodgers really have been less upset, less resentful, less angry, if they had given him a heads up?  I have my doubts. 

 

 

►  I keep hearing that Rodgers has all this “leverage” because of his MVP season.  I’m having trouble seeing it.  Rodgers has two choices.  He can return and play for the Packers, or he can sit out and/or retire.  That’s it.  Some say he can force a trade by reporting to the team while being disruptive and subversive.  I don’t see this happening for two reasons.  First, Rodgers is too competitive and has too much love and respect for his teammates to intentionally undermine his team’s performance.  Secondly, if he did so, every other coach and general manager in the NFL would take note and wonder when Rodgers would do the same thing to their team if he became displeased. 

 

Ultimately, the Packers seem to me to still have the leverage, whatever that’s worth.    Rodgers is under contract for three more years.  If he wants to play, and I firmly believe he does, he will have to play for the Packers, unless the team decides to trade him.  But it will be the team’s decision.  I don’t believe Rodgers can force it.   

 

 

►  On the other hand, you can’t unring the bell.  You can’t unreport what has been reported.  Even if Rodgers does return, won’t all of the coaches and players be walking on egg shells around him?  Terrified to do or say something that will further tick him off?  What about the next time Matt LaFleur has to decide whether to go for it on 4th down?  Will he have to be concerned that Rodgers will resent him if he chooses to kick?   

 

In an offseason when several players have agreed to restructure their deals to help the team, I can’t help but wonder how they feel about Rodgers wanting more.  What must Aaron Jones be thinking?  He took a deal for less than what he would have made on the free agent market to re-sign with the Pack, assuming that, led by Rodgers, Green Bay would be making another Super Bowl run.  It’s hard to imagine Rodgers can now just come back and all will be forgiven and forgotten. 

 

 

►  I thought it was odd that Mike Tirico of NBC Sports reported that Rodgers told him he was disappointed that his rift with the team had gone public.  That seems disingenuous, considering the leaks are coming from his camp.  They are certainly not coming from the Packers.  Those leaks have been precisely and strategically planned and timed.  It’s not a coincidence the news was broken by an ESPN reporter just hours before the draft was to begin, thereby getting maximum attention. (Writer's Update:  Shortly after I posted this arrticle, news broke that ESPN reporter Adam Schefter made the stunning revelation that he had not had any direct communication with Rodgers or his representatives at the time he broke the story on draft day.  Rather, he said his story was based on an accumulation of information.  This would seem to call into question the assertions I made in this paragraph.)  

 

 

►  Rodgers is probably not the only quarterback on the roster who doesn’t want to be there at the moment.  Can you imagine what life must be like for Jordan Love these days?  He didn’t ask for any of this.  Yet, not only is his presence on the team being blamed by many for the potential loss of a legendary Green Bay quarterback, but if he does become the starter, he will be under tremendous pressure to play well, despite not having the previous opportunity to take a single snap in an NFL game. 

 

I have a vivid memory of the season opening game in 2008, Rodgers’ first start for the Packers.  The team had just been through the ugly Brett Favre divorce.  When Rodgers ran out on the field for the first play, the crowd at Lambeau Field gave him a thunderous standing ovation.  It was as if they were saying “We’ve moved on.  We love you and we’re behind you one hundred percent.”   I truly hope Jordan Love gets the same reception when the time comes.  

 

 

►  If Mark Murphy should decide to acquiesce to firing Brian Gutekunst as general manager to retain Rodgers, then Murphy better plan on doing the job himself, because nobody will touch that job with a ten foot pole.  Can you imagine trying to manage an NFL roster while having to worry that anything you do might irritate the starting quarterback who has the ability to fire you? 

 

 

As a devoted Packer fan for over six decades, my knee jerk reaction is to side with the team.  But something happened to cause Rodgers to go from “I don’t see any reason why I wouldn’t be back”, to I’m never coming back.  What really took place over the past three mysterious months?  Maybe Gutekunst really did promise him things that he later reneged on.  Maybe he truly has disrespected his franchise signal caller.  We will likely never know.  What does seem certain is that things will never quite be the same. 

 

 

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__________________________

Ken Lass is a former Green Bay television sports anchor and 43 year media veteran, a lifelong Packers fan, and a shareholder.

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17 points
 

Comments (109)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
4zone's picture

May 06, 2021 at 03:36 pm

AR is famous for calling management out on the mat, pushing them to 'go all in'. Well, how bout AR go all in by taking a substantial pay cut to allow the Packers to be able to afford those 'missing piece' players he keeps demanding? I mean, really, he hasn't got enough money yet?

11 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:35 am

What do you mean? He has to afford his $28,000,000 Malibu beach house in CA, and his other homes around the country. Then throw in his lavish lifestyle and keeping his finance' happy. It is a tough job!

-1 points
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greengold's picture

May 07, 2021 at 10:22 am

My guess is "finance'" is no Freudian slip, and it is fucking brilliant.

0 points
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FAN24583's picture

May 07, 2021 at 07:25 pm

Lets see. They drafted his replacement when he WAS all in. Wasted a 1st and 4th round pick which could have helped this team. I would be pissed too.

2 points
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ricky's picture

May 06, 2021 at 03:41 pm

If the Packers decide to force Rodgers to stay with the team, then they face the strong possibility of a disgruntled, passive/aggressive disruption on the team by it's greatest asset. Remember how Rodgers pouted, grimaced and shouted at the sidelines during the last shortened year of McCarthy's tenure? Expect the same sort of behavior, only possibly dialed even higher. Have the locker room take sides "for" and "against" AR. And watch the season deteriorate. That is he leverage he has, and will use.

0 points
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nstewart1's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:43 pm

The team could live with that; they certainly wouldn't love it.
Unless Rogers plays out of this world next year, it should be his last here.

5 points
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cashmoney04201980's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:20 pm

I find it hilarious how so many people bash Rodgers on here but yet want him to stay here just on the organizations terms which means you do want him to be the qb of the Packers which is exactly what he wants. The only difference is Gutey wants it year to year and Rodgers want a 3 year commitment. I’ll say it again the next 3-5 years with Rodgers you know your competing for championships. With Love you don’t know if he’s Mahomes or Brett Hundly. I like winning so I’m paying Rodgers what he wants. But other might enjoy seeing this team winning 5-6 wins the next few years.

2 points
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:06 am

You do not know what Aaron Rodgers insists. He might wanted 10 year extension with fully guaranteed money. Or he maybe wanted extension to 2024 with guaranteed money for 21, 22 and 23, so he can be sure that he will be in for the next 3 seasons.

We do not know that.

I'm not judging him on what his ask. I'm judging him on what he did and finding out that he did nothing to help calming the situation - nothing. That tells me that Schefter is liar when he tell us that he made conclusion by what Aaron Rodgers said publicly. C'mon

4 points
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CoachDino's picture

May 07, 2021 at 04:14 pm

The elephant in the room, In the next year or two there are going to be even bigger cap issues so the ability to keep AR at a high price and a top tier roster are really in question.

They have had AR for years and haven't won, makes makes anyone think that things are going to change - One of the reasons they did this was the salary cap impact AR has.

All The rave now is that a teams best bet is to find a QB on a rookie contract and build the roster around him.

IMO, Ar should be given 1 or 2 years to win one with GB, if not trade him and move on. If he does, then you might just have to keep him. theres all the motivation AR should need.

0 points
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hobowilly's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:06 pm

I'm so over MM, but when the green & gold apple cart gets overturned like this media circus has created, it reminds me of how MM basically wasted AR going to SB in 2015 and perhaps a third time. We can all see how well Dallas is doing now, LOL.

Still love this organization and Mr. Rodgers for many reasons and am not daunted with how the media has blown it up

2 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:52 am

All competitive players are about individual stats. There are incentive clauses written into contracts, there are individual records, and team records. Players all establish goals for themselves each and every season/game. It helps them focus and for them to achieve greatness. Rodgers is no different! Rodgers want to beef up his statistics.

If Rodger's is acting out than sit him for a game or two. Maybe it is only a half of a game. Hold him accountable all the while providing Love game experience. Is this the way you want to deal with this? NO! Trade Rodgers to the team willing to provide the best deal with young star players, and draft choices. Fleece them!!!

Personally, amongst the team that has been mentioned in a possible trade talk I might be most likely to trade with the 49's out of all of them. Personally, I would rather receive young talented players who can come in and contribute immediately vs waiting for draft picks that you do not know how far down they might be, and whether they turn out to be successful. Therefore, with the 49's I'd ask for:

1. Trey Lance, QB BYU who was the 3rd pick in the draft. Why? The Packers do not have a back-up QB. Why do we want some broken down and older back-up QB? For what? Let Lance and Jordan fight it out and let the best man win QB #1. A couple years down the road one can be traded for more draft picks.
2. While I like Deebo Samuel, WR the Pack just drafted Amari Rodgers to play the same spot. Therefore, I'd request Brandon Ayuk at WR who the Packers at one time had an interest in.
3. I would be willing to give up either Samuel or Ayuk above if Nick Bosa would be available. Would he ever help out our DL?

If the Packers were able to walk away with Trey Lance and say Nick Bosa along with a draft choice or two (whether #1's, or #2's I don't really care) the Packers will have fleeced the 49's and immediately made a SB contender for years to come. The thought of Bosa on the DL with Clark, and the Smiths and Gary...wow! Then having such a highly rated QB in Lance the Packers would be set at QB for another 15-20 years. DO IT!!!!

-3 points
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greengold's picture

May 06, 2021 at 03:46 pm

Maybe he got engaged to a girl from Boulder, Colorado.

-4 points
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Packers0808's picture

May 06, 2021 at 03:58 pm

What makes me wonder why did Rodgers so called great play take 16 years to get too? Why didn't he have that same effort and play making in previous years! Did he play better only ofr his own selfish purposes now coming out?

-3 points
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Alphadork's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:47 pm

Uhm, he won the League MVP three times - spread out over his years under center. There's nothing new in the level of his play on the field. As for whether he has selfish purposes (more or less than anyone else), neither you or I could possibly have any idea, and speculation is a bad look.

7 points
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Packers0808's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:53 pm

His play this year was the best of any his years, does it make any more sense as to what I said? He eclipsed his play last year of his other 2 MVP years! My bet would be is because of his distaste as to how he thinks he was mistreated, when in reality Packers have done tons of help for diva who chokes on big games often!

-1 points
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FAN24583's picture

May 07, 2021 at 07:26 pm

F ing idiot

1 points
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Leatherhead's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:06 pm

Ken......the clock started running when we drafted Love. The Plan was for him to learn for two years and then start in 2022 before we had to commit serious money and exercise the 5th year option. Rodgers responded with an MVP season.

Then he wanted a financial commitment beyond this season so that he could stay here and make a wad. The Organization wasn’t going to commit big money to a guy in his last season. So in a fit of pique, he acted out and rang some bells that cannot be unrung and it’s on to the next chapter in his life.......and in Packer history.

IMO, this is going to tarnish his legacy in Green Bay. The net effect is that the GM assembled a strong team for this season, and Rodgers bailed on it. It is what it is. We still have a strong team and I’ll be watching.

4 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:45 pm

In other words, the plan was flawed.

2 points
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Leatherhead's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:44 pm

Jannes, in the real world, stuff doesn’t happen according to plan. Expecting a perfect plan is setting yourself for disappointment. It’s how you deal with it.

In this plan, Rodgers moving up the timetable hardly negates the entirety of it.

1 points
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cashmoney04201980's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:34 pm

Your right the plan did change. After 2018 & 19 Gutey made a bet that Rodgers was in declined. He responded with an MVP season so Gutey turned out to be wrong. Rodgers wanted a commitment from the Packers isn’t not only reasonable but it should be the Packers asking him to sign an extension which if they would have would of freed up a ton of money this year which they could of used to improve the dl line, linebacker core,etc. It baffles my mind how many people want to let Rodgers walk. We have been spoiled with great qb play for 30 years and as long as Rodgers is here which he could easily play another 5 we’re competing for championships. With Love we have absolutely no idea. What we do know is the coaches say he’s not even close to being able to play let alone know if he’s the next Mahomes or Brett Hundley. I’m not interested in “maybe” being good with Love” I’d rather go with Rodgers knowing we’ll be good.

6 points
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Philarod's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:08 am

Thank you!!

0 points
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4zone's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:21 am

They DID offer to make him the highest paid player in the NFL this off season and he rejected the offer.

2 points
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NickPerry's picture

May 07, 2021 at 06:27 am

He already IS the highest paid player in the NFL this season 4zone. His cap his is over $37.2 million.

He has the HIGHEST cap hit of any player in the NFL in 2021.

https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/rankings/cap-hit//

5 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:08 am

In other words go with the now over the future, that’s a fair take. In a vacuum almost everyone here would.

That said, the rush to jump on to a fairly dubious semi retraction and ignore the splatter of comments from Rodgers friends in favor of believing this was empty media chatter is pretty risible. This is merely Rodgers camp recognizing that the expected reaction hadn’t materialized and was backfiring.

Moreover, there might be a reason the clear out this FO if they offer Rodgers a contract that binds us to him at huge cap cost for four or five more years. The odds that is going to be a value deal for the team are not good. The consequences if Rodgers does decline in play or health will get a lot of people fired and the Packers several years of very high picks in all probability.

1 points
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Rebecca's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:49 pm

Blah blah blah, you’re just rehashing the same crap.

1 points
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Johnblood27's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:05 am

welcome to the interweb sweetheart

-1 points
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LayingTheLawe's picture

May 07, 2021 at 01:32 am

Good summary.

The Packers never expected an MVP level season from Rodgers given his 2019. Now how can you send someone off as a cap casualty in a year when they are the best player in the league? Rodgers is trying to use his performance to gain commitments and I don't blame him for that. But that all this nonsense has been made public really does make him look like a WLB.

6 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:56 am

and everyone with half a brain know that while Rodger's played well his supporting players really helped him out in winning MVP. You do not ever do it alone!

2 points
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CoachDino's picture

May 07, 2021 at 07:39 pm

Hit it on the head. We can debate 2022 or 2023, We can even debate that it was a for sure done deal to make the change but just an opportunity that was to good to pass up so they took it having given themselves a few options. Impossible to know for sure but both are viable.

I get a kick out of the revisionist history around AR QB play before the draft. While he was still an effect QB and IMO was still able to get most all that a QB could out of this offense, his performance was not trending up. yards, TDs and big plays were WAY DOWN, he was holding on to the ball way to long and either throwing it away or getting sacked. Even with that, IMO, he was still a good QB. that's the AR that EVERYONE saw and though there seemed more support for AR than the year before when many of the posts about AR was how he is declining, takes up way to much cap and it could be time for a heir apparent.
Even after the NFCCG loss to SF no one thought this team was that good, just lucky was how IMO the vast majority of NFL fans and media saw it.

then AR embraces the new scheme and coach that the FO got him, maybe because of the draft pick, IDK, and has an MVP year. Now everyone acts like that this the AR when Love was drafted, but it wasn't.

Does his performance impact the plan? might, but doesn't have to. What changed is that the QB, that is under contract for 3 years (Not something that should be considered variable) is acting out for selfish reasons. So ya Leatherhead is dead on imo....and it wasn't a "mistake" to draft Love or the plan was wrong.

2 points
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wsn's picture

May 08, 2021 at 12:27 pm

I like the perspective, but for me the issue is more about the steadfastness they are showing once 12 played stellar last year. I think all parties feel they are acting in the best interest of the team and themselves. Rodgers does indeed benefit from the other players and the new scheme, but they also benefit a lot from Rodgers.

I can't help but feel a bit deflated on the entire topic at this point.

While Rodgers legacy might be tarnished, I think only time will tell If love turns out to be worthy. should he be,
gute will seem prophetic, otherwise this might be seen as a huge public mistake that will tarnish gutes legacy.

I hope this turns it well. it won't be fun if we are sitting around in five years wondering if this could have been the year.

0 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:01 pm

Typical: an aging, plus- size ego professional athlete - in the middle of a huge contract - just after having a (team-aided) m.v.p. year - wants more (a new contract) - conveniently ignoring that that just 2 years ago his career was somewhat in decline. And if he doesn't get what he wants - he's going to hold his breath - and we will all be sorry. Ho hum.

11 points
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Philarod's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:11 am

His "decline" was leading the team to a 13-3 record with an okay offensive supporting cast and a mediocre D.

0 points
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jimtalkbox's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:15 pm

I don't buy that a divorce of sorts with Rodgers is inevitable..

Every top tier QB in the league just watched what Brady did last offseason and the payoff. Let's face it, Championships are the main factor in a QB's legacy. One ring is not enough for guys like Rodgers, Russell and Mahomes. Hell, Eli Manning won 2!

I do believe Rodgers when he says he loves the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin and is frustrated his best efforts haven't earned another couple of rings.

I don't think kowtowing to every Rodgers whim would be good for the franchise, but Rodgers is VERY smart and knows this game. At this point you have to let him have input.

6 points
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:14 am

The main mistake was made when they decide to please Aaron Rodgers and fire Mike McCarty 4 games before the end of the season.

From that moment Aaron thought he is granted rights to mess in others jobs, MM & BG. That was first mistake. How I see, I would make a deal with Aaron, told him to sit that few last games of the 2018 season, inform Mike McCarthy that Packers will release him at the end of the season and that will be that.

By rushing to please Diva characters you got nothing but asking for more.

0 points
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Guam's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:15 am

Does Rodgers want input or to make the final decisions? Gute said he has sought input from many sources including players and Rodgers provided very public input on Kumerow. If Rodgers is unhappy Kumerow was cut, it sounds to me like Rodgers wants final decision making capability, not input.

I agree that a good manager seeks input from many sources, but he is abdicating his job responsibility if he allows others to make his decisions for him. Rodgers is the QB and is allowed input; Gute is the GM and has the responsibility for final personnel decisions. Rodgers would be well served to remember those two job descriptions.

4 points
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canadapacker's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:40 pm

I have seen managers of all types who just think that THEY are the be- all and end-all. You dont have to let everyone around you know that you are the BOSS - all of the time. You also dont have to have a group think on every move you make or are going to make, because you are the BOSS. When the Packers were moving up to select Love - they should have ( if they didnt) had one of their underlings call AR and tell him that it looks like a good QB prospect is going to fall to us and we are going to take him. That would have been informing without soliciting input. As far as Kumerov is concerned - that might/should have required a bit of input from AR - maybe there was some intangibles that AR wanted or liked - who knows. But just to cut him ( which was probably the correct move), seems like thumbing your nose at your MVP of the team. The salary renegotiation whether true of false will not be known - unless either side divulges it - But when you see how other teams have been blowing big bucks and draft picks and always floating around near the bottom of the playoff scene, I see NO reason why the Packers wouldnt have offered AR at least the highest paid QB fully guaranteed for 3 more years. AR has proven that he is not Eli or Rivers and isnt going to fall of the cliff - just like Brady - so pay him until he is 40 and re-up near the end if the performance is still the same. As far as Love is concerned - he is the same as every other late first rounder - very unlikely to become the next AR - so why gamble. If he does develop - trade him or then make the decision on AR. But that is 3 years from now. The way that AR has acted is kind of earned by Gute and Murphy and somewhat earned by AR ( because he is obstinate and plays cerebral games.

2 points
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cashmoney04201980's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:45 pm

Canadapacker your 1000% right and is the most sense I’ve heard on this topic. One addition point that everyone is hammering Rodgers for is because they (media) believed it was Rodgers camp that sent this out on draft night. Rodgers camp denied it, Schefter reported that it 100% didn’t come from Rodgers camp and it was a number of things he heard for months that added up and he decided to run the story on draft day, and finally there’s a lot of belief from Tausch & Wilde on ESPN Milwaukee radio today that the story was actually first pushed out on draft day from either the 49ers or the Broncos trying to force the Packers hand. There would be no benefit to Rodgers to put this out there on draft day when he knows it would take weeks to put a deal to be traded together. My overall point is let’s say that he didn’t leak the story would all the local media, Local fans be crucifying him if that turned out to be true? I highly doubt it. Then the only narrative there would be is an MVP qb wants an extension to play for the team he loves.

-1 points
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:16 am

you want to believe what suits your opinion. That is how great manipulators got you on their bandwagon...

3 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:16 am

As we found in the Favre transition, it’s extremely tempting for many to jump on any excuse to tell themselves everything is rosy.

The same people who fought to disbelieve the first report “Rodgers has told” and the sudden appearance of associated with something to say over draft weekend are now hopping on a rather cryptic semi retraction by the same source as gospel.

That’s not why things happen or how they work, unless of course the media strategy wasn’t making Rodgers look like a mistreated hero ...

3 points
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BrettGB's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:41 pm

Well said. Rodgers' only leverage is that if he stands his ground and sits out, he knows the Packers are probably in big trouble in 2021, and possibly longer depending on what happens at quarterback after him. However that leverage is minimized somewhat by the fact that Rodgers clearly wants to keep playing, so the Packers could call his bluff on this, and at that point we'd just have to see just how upset Rodgers is with management. I tend to take the Packers' side on this, but you said it perfectly, what did happen in the past few months to make him so upset? That's what we don't know.

2 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:40 pm

What happened in the past few months...? Simple - he hasn't gotten his way.

10 points
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fthisJack's picture

May 10, 2021 at 07:34 am

We don't know what his WAY is. He hasn't opened his mouth about what his issues are. It's all a guessing game at this point in time. Is it money, power and control of player personnel/ drafting, wants to be out of GB because of New Babe/ Jeopardy/ West Coast, drafting Love/ releasing Kumerow, hates playing in the cold....all of the above?

0 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:05 pm

Rodgers would NEVER sit out. Ever! He might threaten but he would never act on it. The reasons are very obvious!

It is interesting watching certain posters taking sides and attacking others with different views. Imagine it will get significantly worse in coming weeks. Rodgers is intentionally not speaking out and he needs to. Until then we should all chill though I admit I'm tired of his drama and unless I hear something different and very tangible from Rodgers I am on the just trade him team and pilfer the team trading for him.

5 points
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Alberta_Packer's picture

May 06, 2021 at 09:47 pm

I agree - Rodgers will never sit out - but for another reason. If indeed his fiancee is pregnant (and assuming that Rodgers is the father) - he'll have to work. I'm certain that this man does not know the cost of disposable diapers - very expensive! And if there are twins+ - he will certainly have to work-play into his 40s.

3 points
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PeteK's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:57 am

Hahahaha

0 points
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BrettGB's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:33 pm

I don't see him sitting out either, at least based on what we know. I'm not about to take any one side right now, if ever. There's so much we don't know, and you can see both points of view. The media's just throwing gasoline on the fire getting people more worked up and choosing sides. There is something there, but I'm not sure it's as bad as it sounds in the reports.

2 points
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Pack103172's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:41 pm

All of this story was released and fabricated by that ASSHOLE, Adam Schefter. Go watch the interview he had with Dan Patrick this morning. He admits to everything, assuming that something was about to unfold between the Packers and Aaron Rodgers. So what better time to get that story out, well the Draft of course. I have lost all respect for Schefter. He was one of the few sports writers out there that still was reporting facts. Now this guy is a total disgrace, pathetic.

13 points
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BrettGB's picture

May 06, 2021 at 04:52 pm

If he made it up, why didn't the Packers and Rodgers for that matter deny it? Rodgers hasn't spoken directly at all, but the Packers have, and addressed the situation straight up. All they disputed were things like "Rodgers wants Gutekunst fired".

8 points
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PeteK's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:25 pm

Excellent point!!

5 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:25 pm

And that wasn’t a complete roll back either

5 points
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Alphadork's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:45 pm

Schefter is who he always was. You'll recall he illegally obtained Pierre-Paul's medical records when he blew his fingers off, and he and ESPN published it. He works for clicks, not content or trust.

9 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:20 pm

Hmmm, you can believe that, but not even Florio fell for that disclaimer, contradicting his original words. Doing what his friends tell him to because this PR bomb didn’t go off as planned. Rodgers is trying to row it back and pretend it was all randomly timed speculation

4 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:32 pm

Coldwell, I dont always agree with your comments but you are 100% correct in this situation. I read the sports writers comments tonight and 100% he is trying to back peddle. Using words like there was an 'accummulation' of information he was hearing, so he somehow was able to decipher Rodger's has said he will not return to the Packers even though no one else had said it, or was quoted as saying it. Pathetic! Rodgers and agent must be pulling strings. In the meantime, Rodgers still has not spoken. Such pathetic games!

I also like how Rodger's friends (Kuhn, Favre, and now James Jones) are all now starting to speak up as Rodger's public relations is trending badly. There will be more friends and past Packers speaking up in the coming weeks, but in the meantime Rodgers continues to remain silent. The silence speaks for itself!

6 points
6
0
Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:11 am

I’m glad you don’t always agree. It would be pretty dull if we all agreed here. Variant opinions are good, at least ones that evidence at least a modicum of thought. This topic is a subject that tends to encourage the opposite.

2 points
2
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Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:31 am

Shefter depends on the Rodgers of this world to channel through him. That’s his life blood. Do you really think he would do something like this without knowing it was desired? If you do, I think that’s naive. Similarly, he will somewhat half heartedly fall on his sword to protect his future flow of information when the reaction is not that hoped for by his sources. It the price of continuing to be a channel for Rodgers but also others.

Then I look at the thumbs up your comment got and see, sadly, that so many will swallow anything favorable to their hopes despite observed behavior.

4 points
4
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HankScorpio's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:55 am

Shefter has a vested interest in accurately reporting content. It he's wrong over time, there will be fall out on him. People will stop talking to him or listening to him. And then he's out of a job.

He also has a vested interest in playing ball with his sources. If they are not happy, they clam up.

I think Shefter going on Dan Patrick show was about Team Rodgers not liking the way this is playing out.

4 points
4
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greengold's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:26 pm

After digging in on this, which I was trying to avoid, it looks like Schefter may have jumped into an area he may not have wanted to, using the words he chose.

To me, his Dan Patrick interview looks like a walking back of comments. Doesn't mean the info isn't accurate, just that the persons/teams involved may not have wanted that to occur the way it was characterized, or with that particular timing - which others might read other things into, like, malice... or ill intent. Most of the stuff Packerland has been bashing back and forth ever since.

Wow.

3 points
3
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stockholder's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:15 pm

I really think you put to many assumptions in your article. If he comes back: Rodgers will do whatever LeFluer wants. He wants to win. And thats the difference. Who cares what Love thinks or does. He hasn't thrown a pass yet. Gute is the Ass hole here. He wanted Rodgers to buckle under his demands. Put yourself in Rodgers shoes. Not Gutes. The monkey was on his back with MM. Told don't be the problem by Murphy. Put Back to Back 13-3 seasons together and showed he could work with Lefluer. Rodgers had every right to voice his discontent. He challenges everyone to be better. Love won't.

-4 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:54 pm

Love is still young. The people that need to be challenged are the Fans. They tolerate the third place finish and the one and dunns. As long as they have rot gut whiskey and see-thru s to help them get through the home field wild card game they are content. No vax, no mask, no ticket is the policy of winners.

-1 points
3
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canadapacker's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:14 pm

Love has does nothing - some may be the fault of the virus and no- real time practice before the start of the season and no preseason games - but he didnt even show enough during what he time that he had to make it as the back up. Even during the season he didnt improve enough to dislodge Boyle. The Packers under MM were supposedly know for bringing along QB's but the only one that they did was Flynn and he flopped in Seattle Oakland and had to come back as a back up. Hundley developed somewhat but is still not a starter. So so much for the Packers being able to bring a guy along and coach them up with the vaunted QB school. So who is to say that Love will not be the next Johnny M, or Tebow or Osweiller etc etc etc. No one darned thing. And if you want to dump on being in the playoffs what does that tell you about Bears, Lions, Jets, Dolphins, Jags, etc etc and especially those teams that tank to get the better picks and screw that up. We are spoiled and you are in particular. We all hope to win but only 2 out of 32 make the Superbowl and I would rather be in the dance each year than be watching in hope of getting a better pick. Seems to me that you had one too many Jack and cokes tonight.

-2 points
1
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CoachDino's picture

May 07, 2021 at 07:48 pm

I hear ya on the second half but you couldn't be more wrong about the Love situation. Love was drafted knowing he was the 3rd string QB in 2021 and with the Covid impact there was going to be no chance to change that. Once a season starts and the Back-up QB, who has the years of experience and knowledge of the scheme and getting all the Back-up snaps isn't going to be unseeded by a developmental rookie, certainly not on a good team. How? let alone why? Love wouldn't even really have a chance to prove he should be (as explained). He was a DEVELOPMENTAL draft pick, meaning he wasn't going anywhere near the field for a few years if possible. Now what would of been telling is if they kept Boyle this year, which they didn't.

0 points
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:25 am

"Rodgers had every right to voice his discontent."

No he has no right at all. He signed contract and his rights is to fulfill contract obligations. What that contract says to us. He got the highest paid contract (at the time) above all QBs despite his play was not on the level of the contract. Now he is playing mind games with Packers management trying to get more over that contract. So Packers showed respect to their franchise face when he was not on his top. Now he wants to use MVP award to blackmail that same organization? How pathetic...

3 points
5
2
stockholder's picture

May 07, 2021 at 10:05 am

Ok just get rid of the union now. He won the MVP. So everybody sucks in the NFL? The mind games are not fact. The finger is pointing the other way. Gute showed no respect with the "All In". ( The Trench has always been the way to go.) BUT- this really started 3 months ago. And the cap was the story. If anybody was blackmailed, it was the players.

1 points
3
2
Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:14 am

Have you ever thought of writing a novel? You have a marvelously convoluted way of seeing reality.

0 points
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:21 pm

Dies Aaron Rodgers, under the 1st amandment of the US Constitution, has the right to demand that others lose job, as the condition to fulfill his contract obligation, or to mess with others jobs.

I have no problems if he will speak directly what he thinks about everything and everybody. But I have problem with conditioning fulfilling his contract obligation. I have no problem him hear anything about anything, but I have a problem with requesting his opinion to be taken as judgement. And if it is not taken as judgement he will not fulfill his contract obligation.

I hope you'll now understand what I ment, when I was talking about AR rights.

That is all.

-1 points
0
1
Since'61's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:02 am

Yes, this is still the USA and Rodgers has the right to express himself under the 1st amendment of the US Constitution. I'm confident that Rodgers contract does NOT include a "You are not allowed to speak clause". Rodgers may be wrong in what he says but has the right to say it. End of story. Thanks, Since '61

3 points
3
0
Lphill's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:17 pm

It seems the majority here believe third party speculation , that is very sad indeed.

4 points
8
4
Lphill's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:17 pm

It seems the majority here believe third party speculation , that is very sad indeed.

1 points
4
3
Alberta_Packer's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:34 pm

Unless Rodgers speaks - to assuage the situation - and not foment it - third party is all that's possible. It's entirely correctable - should "one" person decide it so.

6 points
7
1
Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:21 am

Yes, everything is sunshine and roses ...

0 points
0
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dobber's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:43 am

This is the story of public opinion in just about every arena of our modern culture.

1 points
1
0
Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:17 am

Just devastating. I bet some of them still wish we had drafted Queen and thus won the Super Bowl if only they had pointed that out more assiduously.

1 points
1
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croatpackfan's picture

May 08, 2021 at 09:05 am

Again, I have no problems with Aaron Rodgers expressing his thoughts with public. Of any issue he consider important.

But I still claim that he has no right to blackmailing his employer with threat that he will NOT fulfill contract if his proposal, opinion or thoughts will not be accepted and fulfilled.

As you are sure that his contract does not prohibit him to express his proposal, opinions or thoughts (here I agree with you!), I'm also sure that in his contract there is no permission or demand to request personel changes, hiring or firing or deciding which player/coach will be on the team.

Also, if he wants Brian Gutekunst to keep any player, he should not go publucly with that request, but those things are for private conversation inside the organization, not through reporters (like story regarding Jake Kumerow)..

0 points
0
0
TarynsEyes's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:31 pm

A very good article that could have been better had you left out the tears for Love. All Love has to do is what he was drafted to do, come to camp, learn, perform at best he can, and let HC, FO, or whoever decides it's time for him to take over.

6 points
8
2
Goldenbear's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:42 am

Really? Tears for Love. Everything he stated was true and legit. All Rodgers has to do is shut up, report to work, and honor his contract he signed!

-3 points
0
3
PeteK's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:38 pm

Now that I have cooled off after the initial shock, could it be that Rodgers is just burnt out and wants out of football after 16 yrs. Maybe everyone is just misreading his intentions. Remember he was very upset with the Union and players for voting in an extra game, and resigned as a rep.

2 points
4
2
croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:29 am

That is also possibility why he do not want to play anymore. And that his words were used against him to construct story that is not there.

But still, Aaron Rodgers is one who could say immediately after news broke out that it is evil construction and while there is the problems with negotiations (AR vs Packers) they are still open. HE DID NOT DO THAT. So, if he plan to retire because of the upset with the Union, he might clearly said that, too.

0 points
0
0
Alphadork's picture

May 06, 2021 at 05:43 pm

So I guess your statement attributing the timing and the content of the "leaks" to Aaron and his handlers was written before Adam Schefter's revelation today? Can we count on CHTV to be more ethical than Schefter and concede that AR maybe had nothing to do with it and the information might not have been completely accurately conveyed?

4 points
5
1
KenLass's picture

May 06, 2021 at 10:29 pm

Alphadork, Yes, I wrote this article prior to Schefter’s remarks. I do concede that it throws much reasonable doubt on the source of the leaks.

3 points
4
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:38 pm

All Rodgers has to do is speak and refute. He hasn't done that! He knows and reads what is being said, but continues to remain silent. He is monitoring the fan sentiment, and what is being said around the league. If the tide seems to strongly be against him he will come forward with a story.

2 points
2
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Archie's picture

May 07, 2021 at 05:11 pm

As many of us have said many times, the fact AR has not refuted any of this ugly skuttle-but speaks volumes, i.e., it strongly implies that a major part of it is true or close to the truth. Anything else would make no sense.

I've come to the conclusion either the selection of Jordan Love is a stick in his craw that he can't get over or he has lost all confidence in the Packers' ability to draft and/or otherwise acquire the talent necessary to win championships or both. It can't be money.

1 points
1
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Philarod's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:18 am

Okay, and therefore ...

1 points
1
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HankScorpio's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:01 am

"...concede that AR maybe had nothing to do with it and the information might not have been completely accurately conveyed?"

Sorry, that ship has sailed. Both sides have acknowledged there is a rift. Rodgers did so off the record to Mike Tirico and the Packers did it publicly through a statement. The rift exists. Rodgers is unhappy. Since he is the one unhappy, by definition, he has something to do with the story.

So get off your high horse. It's got broken legs and needs to be put down.

2 points
2
0
10ve 💚's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:28 pm

So now we know why the Packers haven't rushed to pick up a couple of QBs - a rookie and a veteran.

Adam Shefter needs the shaft... in you-know-where.

-1 points
2
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Coldworld's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:21 am

Hmm, yes that is why we haven’t signed a camp arm and panic overpaid for a third rate vet who knows we are in a jam. Keep the fantasy rolling.

0 points
0
0
jeremyjjbrown's picture

May 06, 2021 at 06:59 pm

”That seems disingenuous, considering the leaks are coming from his camp."

I'm sure that's true for some of them. But others are a pretty bad look such as Rodgers told potential FAs he might not be around. I doubt all of these leaks came from Rodgers camp. Some of them are clearly click bait. Rodgers isn't dumb enough to sabotage the team he is under contract with. I'm sure he wants to be paid, but I'm also sure he wants to win.

2 points
3
1
KermitFroggie's picture

May 06, 2021 at 07:21 pm

Shailene is probably pregnant.. He just wants to be with her and his future family. From WISN: "An Instagram photo of the 29-year-old actress at the Kentucky Derby is sparking social media speculation.It was posted Saturday by actor Miles Teller's wife, Keleigh Sperry Teller. In the photo, the woman next to Woodley appears to be holding Woodley's stomach.Woodley's hand appears to be holding the other woman's hand."

0 points
2
2
Alberta_Packer's picture

May 06, 2021 at 07:51 pm

Just hold on for a second- Woodley pregnant? Rodgers extreme animus towards Gutekunst! Is the father in question? It all makes sense now. A matter for Maury Povich?

4 points
4
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Since'61's picture

May 06, 2021 at 07:30 pm

I think this situation ends with Rodgers retiring. Then during the 3rd game of the season with the Packers 0-2 and trailing in Week 3 Love under pressure tries to run for a first and takes a serious injury and is down for the count.

While the network breaks for one of their million commercials as Love is tended to Murphy picks up the phone and dials Rodgers number. “Are you ready to play?” Rodgers says, I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Rodgers returns the team is invigorated and takes the Packers on a10-0 run. In week 14 Stokes who has replaced Kevin King as starting CB goes out with a concussion and King steps in. The opposing QB targets King and the game becomes a shootout. Late in the 4th Q Rodgers leads the Packers on a go ahead TD drive but there is 1 minute 20 seconds to play. With less than 20 seconds to play the opposing QB throws a 40 yard TD behind King again and the Packers lose 35-34 on an extra point Crosby missed early in the game.

After that the Packers win their final 3 games of the season to finish the 13-4 with the #1 seed. With Stokes back in the field the Packers roll through the playoffs and win the SB!
Rodgers is named MVP yet again.

The day after the victory parade Murphy holds a presser and states that the Packers and Rodgers have agreed to an extension through 2024. Love injury is career ending but he will fill in at Jeopardy until Rodgers leaves the Packers. Murphy also announces that Gute is out and that Murphy, MLF and Rodgers will handle the draft while the search for a new GM begins.
Rodgers announces his wedding date and is heard softly singing “You don’t tug on Superman’s cape , you don’t spit into the wind, you don’t pull the mask on the old Lone Ranger and you don’t mess around with me” as he is boarding his flight out of Green Bay for the off-season.

A month later in a small paragraph in the middle of the paper the Milwaukee Sentinel reports that Gutekunst has been named Athletic Director of Lander, Wyoming HS.

Good time for all us to maintain our sense of humor. Thanks, Since ‘61

2 points
5
3
hobowilly's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:44 pm

..the only story line you may have missed is when Deanna Farve sits with Shailene in the sky box and the new baby Rodgers while Brett trolls the sidelines for ... James Jones is named the baby's Godfather.

Oh, and btw, your 35-34 loss seems plausible, but remember MLF is entering only his third year and is exponentially more gifted (esp calling plays/game scheming) than his predecessor already. Perhaps he will learn how to drive a newly acquired go for the kill mentality, something MM unfortunately never developed, along with TE usage.
Go Pack Go.

4 points
4
0
Since'61's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:59 pm

We can only hope that MLF can develop a go for the kill mentality. The Packers have been lacking that mentality on both sides of the ball for a long time. Thanks, Since '61

4 points
4
0
jannes bjornson's picture

May 07, 2021 at 01:59 pm

Tear down the silos. Attitude starts at the top. Nobody wears cocoa colored slacks with a navy blue sports jacket.

2 points
2
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croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:47 am

Since '61. I can tell you only one thing. If Aaron Rodgers call out to sit or to retire, he will never be back to Packers.

Why? Because he is pissed off with Mike Murphy. MM, after pleased him with firing Mike McCarthy did not ask him who will be new GM and who will be new HC.

Because he is pissed with Brian Gutekunst for picking BAP 2 years ago without telling him and without his approval. And because he did not get fully guaranteed money on the contract that would lasts 10 years from now.

Because he is pissed with MLF, who sent the FG unit, instead to let him to finish complete embarrassment by throwing to Davante Adams for the 4th time in bunch of defenders around DA for the 4th consecutive incompletion, and consequently losing any chance to win the game.

If he show himself in training camp, OK. he will play, but if he won't be there, forget about Aaron Rodgers as Packer.

The truth always hurt the most, but it produce purification of the soul.

-2 points
1
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Since'61's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:07 am

Lighten up. My post was meant as humor or maybe a fantasy. Just trying to inject some fun into a totally unnecessary and stupid situation. I'm done with this until it is resolved and we can discuss the implications for the Packers one way or the other. Thanks, Since '61

1 points
1
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greengold's picture

May 07, 2021 at 11:55 am

Sincey!!! YOU REALLY DID THAT!!!! Awesome.

1 points
1
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Since'61's picture

May 07, 2021 at 03:24 pm

greengold, This is one of those times when we need to keep our senses of humor and keep this in perspective relative to the bigger picture of things. One way or the other this too shall pass. Thanks, Since '61

0 points
0
0
MarkinMadison's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:04 pm

I think I'm officially over this topic.

7 points
7
0
Packers0808's picture

May 06, 2021 at 08:42 pm

Schecter is a crumb, lookingto be the whole loaf!

2 points
2
0
canadapacker's picture

May 06, 2021 at 09:46 pm

""""ESPN reporter Adam Schefter, whose tweet April 29 served as a bombshell indicating Aaron Rodgers didn't want to report to the Green Bay Packers for the 2021 season, told the "Dan Patrick Show" on Thursday that he didn't receive any new information that prompted him to share his scoop when he did.""""

So this wasnt AR who leaked this on the night of the draft or the night before the Draft - it was this CRUMB - So is he a hero?? Is he going to get a big raise and perhaps more time on the NFL network? Or maybe he should be put into the same place that Warren Sapp is residing because he took a lot of the focus away from the draft and the draft prospects and their families.

1 points
2
1
Mojo's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:32 pm

"Those leaks have been precisely and strategically planned and timed. It’s not a coincidence the news was broken by an ESPN reporter just hours before the draft was to begin, thereby getting maximum attention."

... or not -" After an appearance on the Dan Patrick show it was determined neither Aaron Rodgers nor the Packers wanted the news to come out, according to Adam Schefter. He also suggested the report was “accumulation of information” rather than a specific report from Rodgers or the Packers that day."

Schefter was quoted “It was nothing that morning that came in… It was going on all offseason, you just keep hearing it, and there was more and more talk and now there starts to be Aaron Rodgers, and I said ‘You know what, this isn’t going to wait much longer,’ and it just happened to be Draft Day.”

Or how about this from the Patrick interview:

Patrick: Because I wondered when you said it didn’t come from Rodgers, didn’t come from the Packers, and it’s being characterized differently, I was wondering, okay, you’re not gonna tell me your source, what was the motive behind that?

Schefter: Dan, there’s not a source.

I don't doubt that Schefter used draft day to get the most attention on the subject, but there is nothing suggesting Rodgers himself was behind this. Not only that but Schefter said in the same interview; "You know Dan, the funny part about it is, I heard people say ‘Oh, Aaron Rodgers wanted that out before the draft.’ I can assure you Aaron Rodgers did not want that out before the draft."

Seems to me like Schefter wanted to make sure no one would scoop him on this story and decided to get maximum exposure by dropping it on draft day.

Rodgers would do himself a service if he got out his side of the story. The more I hear, the more I believe the breakup isn't inevitable.

0 points
2
2
croatpackfan's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:57 am

Or maybe they have deal, Schefter & Aaron. He will denied that the leak came from Aaron and he will get more juicy info through the story.

I really do not know what to say, who is the guilty one. But I know for sure that Schefter did not produce the news at that moment just accidentally. Those "accidents" never came by chance. The timing of the announcement was what suggest that Aaron (or somebody from his inner circle) approved Schefter to go in public on the very moment. Or Aaron decided to confirm what Schefter asked him, but waiting till the "perfect" moment he choose.

-2 points
1
3
Duneslick's picture

May 06, 2021 at 11:36 pm

If Aaron retires GB will be picking at the top of the draft next year and maybe selecting a QB. Love could not beat out Boyle for 2nd QB last year and is only 2nd qb now because he was taken so high otherwise it would make gute look bad

-7 points
0
7
Harold Drake's picture

May 07, 2021 at 01:00 am

Another Packers' front office press release. Rodgers is the league MVP. He is arguably one of the top five NFL QBs of all time. He is the most talented QB in the NFL today alongside Patrick Mahomes. He is also 37 years of age, and given the experiences of Drew Brees and Tom Brady, he has at least four more years left in the tank where he will play at an extremely high level. So what does Brian Gutekunst do? He drafts Jordan Love in the first round knowing that Love will never start for the team until 2022 at the earliest and perhaps not even for another two years. That means saddling the team with a "dead" pick for four years while the team is a Super Bowl contender. It was screamingly obvious that the Packers should have taken a WR in either the first or second round last year. Instead of trading up for a dead draft pick, they could have traded up for Justin Jefferson or simply taken Chase Claypool in their normal 1st round slot while conserving the fourth round draft pick that went for Love.

Of course, hindsight is 20/20, but why is it that virtually everyone else in the NFL commentariat believes that the Packers' front office has done a great disservice to the team by alienating the league's best player. And simply because Rodgers led the league's top performing offense does not mean that that offense would not have been ever better had they an additional "weapon." And to those who love to repeat the obnoxious and insipid mantra that the Packers already had enough weapons and did not need to give Rodgers more talented options at WR, it should be obvious that there was a gaping hole in the WR arsenal last year for a speedy receiver who could run inside routes or otherwise stretch defenses in a way that the immensely talented speed merchant MVS cannot.

The fact is that Mark Murphy is not a particularly competent or dynamic team president. Although he may not create as much damage to a team as some of the NFL's owners, he clearly did not manage the Rodgers situation well and neither did Gutekunst. The legacy of the latter will be that he helped oust the NFL's MVP QB for the sake of safety down the road in the form of Jordan Love. At least Aaron Nagler has seen the light and been willing to condemn Gutekunst and Murphy for their massive failure of judgment in not at very minimum giving AR12 advance notice of a possible QB pick for the sake of the team's future. Rodgers is one of the smartest individuals in the NFL, do you really think that he would be offended if the Packers explained their thinking to him? Rodgers felt slighted and blindsided by the Love pick. Justifiably so. And that is why he is now engaging in maximum schadenfreude mode and allowing the Packers to twist in the wind until they give him the guaranteed money he wants (at the very least) and probably a trade to another team (at the top of his wishlist). While his passive-aggressive leak of last week is deplorable, one must realise that the Packers' pushed their hyper-sensitive QB to this point all the while knowing that Rodgers is indeed hyper-sensitive! A good GM and even a barely competent team president would have understood the need to manage Rodgers' perceptions and keep him on board. Sadly, the Packers have neither. Gutekunst and Murphy have backed both the team and Rodgers into a corner where neither side feels comfortable moving forward. And one should be highly skeptical of the unsubstantiated report that the Packers offered Rodgers a new deal making him the highest paid player in the history of the NFL and a minimum of two years' guaranteed money. Why would Rodgers have turned down such a deal when it gives him the chance to manage an offense that he is now totally in sync in leading? Of course, it is possible that Rodgers resents Gutekunst and Murphy to such an extent that he is willing to push matters to the brink by potentially holding out and forcing a trade. I doubt that. But everyone should understand that this entire "crisis" has been brought about by Gutekunst and his chief enabler, Mark Murphy. All for nothing. GO PACK GO.

-1 points
6
7
Since'61's picture

May 07, 2021 at 08:49 am

Excellent post Harold! Thanks, Since '61

2 points
3
1
Harold Drake's picture

May 07, 2021 at 10:36 am

Thank you, 61! I'm mainly worried that Rodgers won't be back this year. Gutekunst's draft picks this year seem to address team needs, including a slot receiver for AR12. It would be a tragedy if the team isn't able to come to terms with him on guaranteed money and an extension. And I don't think Rodgers has any good options except possibly Denver but God help me if I'm going to follow the Broncos after hating Elway for beating Favre and the Pack in the Super Bowl. All the best. I take some heart in what Kuhn and James Jones said yesterday. It could just be that Rodgers wanted to get under Gute's skin as payback for last year and wants to force the team to cough up an extra $10 million in guaranteed money or a signing bonus as revenge. It could be as absurd as that.

1 points
1
0
FAN24583's picture

May 07, 2021 at 07:38 pm

You are right on point!!!

0 points
0
0
fastmoving's picture

May 07, 2021 at 01:53 am

Just the best take about the situation. You nailed it just the way it is. Nothing left to say, you are right on the money.
Great, smart articel. Thank you.......

-2 points
2
4
Reghamster's picture

May 07, 2021 at 02:09 am

I think John Kuhn put it all in to perspective . Rodgers wants a contract that will guarantee that he has job security with the Packers and he isn't ridden out of town in a year or two or whenever . It may be true that he has other issues in his life. e.g. a future Hollywood wife and aspirations to host Jeopardy but essentially he is seeking some guarantees that he will be the starter for the Packers 3 plus years from now . He doesn't need the money just the guaranteed years on his contract. Personally unlike some , I would rather have Rodgers play for us whether we win the Superbowl or not. Someone mentioned Eli Manning's and John Elway's 2 victories in the Superbowl . Superbowl victories are, as those two qbs illustrate , less exciting and important than watching Rodgers or Favre play every week. Football is an entertainment first and foremost. Give Rodgers his contract and let's move on past the drama . The sad thing about living in the Midwest is we all get so wrapped up in moral opinion making . I hoped Ron Wolf had cured us of that stuff. Apparently not.

4 points
4
0
Roadrunner23's picture

May 07, 2021 at 09:51 am

Mr Zen, was that all a bunch of BS from a petulant selfish spoiled multi millionaire. Why yes it was, Mr Rodgers is playing all of the good hearted and faithfully caring fans of the Packers.

That being said there is definitely a communication problem between Mr Murphy and Mr Rodgers, I don’t blame Brian Gutekunst, he’s just doing things the Packers way which in this woke, me first world we live in has to adapt.

How does this get fixed, begrudgingly admit your mistake publicly, talk it out with Rodgers and other team leaders how management and players can communicate better towards the common good.
Hug it out and go win a F’ING Super Bowl and all will be good.

Get it done Murphy or your legacy will be a pile of crap

0 points
2
2