Aaron Rodgers plans to play for Packers in 2021
Jul 26, 2021, 12:30 PM
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has indicated to people close to him that he plans to play for the Packers this season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
#Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has indicated to people close to him that he does plan to play for GB this season, sources say. That is the expectation. Many factors at play, but with GM Brian Gutekunst saying he is “hopeful” for a positive outcome, there is a glimmer of optimism.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 26, 2021
The shift in tone between the two sides is the result of ramped up communication with the season nearing, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported.
Packers CEO Mark Murphy provided a huge glimpse into how the organization is feeling about Rodgers:
“We want him back,” he said at the team’s annual shareholders meeting at Lambeau Field on Monday. “We’re committed to him for 2021 and beyond. We’re looking forward to winning another Super Bowl with him.”
Of course the drama between Rodgers and the Packers still has some people questioning his actions, including teammate David Bakhtiari.
Wow. Guess we aren’t “close people” @AaronRodgers12 https://t.co/314T3RFFzq
— David Bakhtiari (@DavidBakhtiari) July 26, 2021
Rodgers never technically demanded a trade from the Packers, or even a new contract. He reportedly recently turned down a two-year extension that would’ve tied him to Green Bay for another five seasons.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported in April that Rodgers did not want to return to the team. He skipped Green Bay’s organized team activities and mandatory minicamp earlier this offseason.
Rodgers is under contract through the 2023 season. According to Spotrac, the team can save $22.6 million against the cap if he is traded or released next offseason.
