Aaron Rodgers’ future has dominated headlines this offseason, and it looks like we’ll finally get a verdict on his future, for 2021.
It has been well-documented that Rodgers is clearly displeased with the Packers organization, but the two sides seem like they’re going to make it work in 2021.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the two sides have an agreement in principle that has a variety of parameters to it. Schefter detailed that this new contract will allow Rodgers to become a free agent in 2023. The remaining contract would be voided, and the Packers reportedly agreed to review Rodgers’ future/situation at the end of the season. Rodgers reportedly agreed to adjust his contract to give the Packers more cap room. But, Rodgers did not agree to a pay cut, or any loss of money. And finally, “mechanisms will be put in place to address Rodgers' issues with the team.” So, after months of speculation Aaron Rodgers looks like he’ll be back in Green Bay for his 17th NFL season.
My first reaction to this was Aaron Rodgers now controls his fate and his future, but, the Packers are able to give themselves options moving forward. If Rodgers seeks a trade at the end of this season, the Packers then will have the luxury of acquiring assets for him. If Rodgers wants to stay in Green Bay in 2022, then the Packers will have two opportunities to win a Super Bowl with Aaron Rodgers. This is a pretty good end result, especially when it looked like the Packers would be forced to work on the fly at quarterback in 2021.
Reports have also surfaced from Schefter that with Rodgers back in the mix in 2021, the team could be looking to make another attempt at extending wide receiver, Davante Adams.
Aaron Rodgers’ displeasure with the Packers organization had nothing to do with money. It was all about controlling and dictating his future. Similar to how Tom Brady orchestrated his exit in New England, Rodgers now controls the cards and controls how the remainder of his career plays out.
In my opinion, this will ultimately lead to the Packers trading him after the season, and Rodgers will play in greener pastures in 2022. Hence, why Rodgers posted this image on his Instagram story.
Who knows how the landscape of the league will look in a year. But, I’d imagine teams like the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, and the Washington Football Team would be on the top of the list of teams that could be interested in Rodgers.
But, 2022 and beyond shouldn’t be important right now for the Packers. The most important thing on their mind should be giving Aaron Rodgers the right tools to get back to the Super Bowl.