The Aaron Rodgers situation in Green Bay has reportedly only divided Packers fans more than ever
In an ideal world, Aaron Rodgers would be with the Green Bay Packers. He wouldn’t worry about the Jordan Love selection in 2020, nor the lack of wide receivers selected in the first round. Instead, he’d be ready to play Week 1 against the New Orleans Saints.
The world isn’t ideal. Neither is Rodgers’ situation.
As OTAs come to a close, Rodgers remains away from the team. It’s been over a month since ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the 37-year-old reigning MVP was done with the organization and wanted to move on elsewhere.
Needless to say, there have been mixed emotions on both sides of the table. According to Packers president Mark Murphy, the standoff between the two sides is not just inside the building but among the fanbase as well.
“The situation we face with Aaron Rodgers has divided our fanbase,” Packers president Mark Murphy wrote in his monthly column on the team website. “The emails and letters that I’ve received reflect this fact.”
Packers: Can Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay meet in the middle?
Rodgers missed voluntary OTAs and does not appear ready to rejoin the team at mandatory minicamp later this month. Murphy repeatedly has maintained a positive outlook on the situation, believing both sides could meet in the middle before the start of the season.
“As I wrote here last month, we remain committed to resolving things with Aaron and want him to be our quarterback in 2021 and beyond,” Murphy wrote. “We are working to resolve the situation and realize that the less both sides say publicly, the better.”
Packers minicamp begins next Tuesday. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, if Rodgers were to miss camp, he would be subject to a fine of $93,085. For missing OTAs, Rodgers forfeited a $500,000 workout bonus with the organization.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has stated multiple times the team remains committed to Rodgers despite trading up for Love in 2020. During the past two seasons, the duo has combined for a 26-6 record, along with two trips to the NFC Championship.
Rodgers holds some power though, as his time hosting Jeopardy! could allow him to retire before the start of the season. Without a full preseason, it’s hard to dissect Love’s upside as the future heir to a three-time MVP winner.
At this point, it has been a mixed reaction in Green Bay. There are those who want Rodgers back by any means. There’s also many who are upset the veteran quarterback no longer wishes to be a member of the organization despite the success under the new regime.
Rodgers reporting to camp Tuesday would clear the air on many things. His absence would stir the pot more among the fans.