GREEN BAY WIS. Aaron Rodgers Tuesday's statement by the player was that he does not know how many seasons he will play. He admitted that the $150 million, three-year contract extension he signed in March should not be taken as an indicator. But he does know where he will end his career.
One year later, he skipped the Green Bay PackersHe attended a mandatory minicamp as part his offseason discontent with the organization. He was then asked if he intended to finish his career playing for the only team he had ever played for in the NFL.
“Yes, definitely,” Rodgers said.
It was still in doubt even though everything, from asking for a deal to retirement, was on the table.
Rodgers put all doubts to rest Tuesday, after the Packers' mandatory minicamp practice. To work out in Southern California, Rodgers had previously skipped the majority of the voluntary offseason programs.
Rodgers smiled and channeled his inner self, “I'm just there so I won't be fined.” Marshawn Lynch.
Perhaps he was only half-joking. According to a source, Rodgers skipped mandatory minicamp last June and the team sent Rodgers a letter informing Rodgers that he would face disciplinary action.
Tuesday's practice was his debut opportunity to throw to newly-acquired receivers Sammy Watkins As a rookie draft selection and as a free agency Christian Watson (second round), Romeo Doubs (fourth round) Samori Toure (seventh round). Receiver was the only important member of Packers' offense that wasn't there. Allen LazardThe unsigned contract for his restricted agent free agent contract has yet to be signed by.
Rodgers stated, “I miss the men,” Rodgers added. “I love being with the guys.” It's been a great offseason. I appreciate my [training] The work we did and the team that returned to southern California. It's great to be back with the guys. It was great to meet Christian, Romeo, and to get re-acclimated with some older guys. It's about timing and feeling the urgency. It's great to be back in the same building as these guys.
“They've been amazing about me taking good care of myself in the way I need. It's been a great experience and I can only hope for more.
Matt LaFleur, Packers coach, was initially unsure how much work he would give Rodgers on Tuesday. However, after seeing that Rodgers was in good condition, he permitted Rodgers to participate in nearly every drill, even some 11-on-11s at a jog through speed.
LaFleur stated that the better these guys get along with each other, and the more they can learn from each other, then the faster they can develop the chemistry that is so crucial, which we know will be so critical in our success on the field. “So, I am just excited that we have him in the building and with these young guys. We'll watch how he does today.”
The Packers have just come off three consecutive 13-win seasons, but they failed to make the Super Bowl in any of those seasons. They also lost two games in the NFC Championship Game. Now Rodgers must deal with the aftermath. Davante AdamsGreen Bay's All-Pro receiver, he wanted to leave Green Bay. He was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders.
Rodgers stated that “The offense must change.” “Last year, when a guy is that talented, it's not an exaggeration at all to say that 80% (of the passes in the passing game) were specifically designed for '17. So we're clearly gonna do some different things.”
Rodgers will practice Wednesday and Thursday, but he said he won't be there for the final OTAs next Tuesday. Rodgers stated that he only thinks about one season at a given time when it comes to his future. He described the contract extension as a series of one year deals that were made in part to provide Packers salary-cap relief.
Rodgers said, “If I say that I'm sure I'm going to play two more, three years, then you have a magic season that finishes with a championship, and that's the best way to ride off,” Rodgers added. “You might say I'm only going to play one more year. But if you're still hungry and passionate to play for another year, it's not something I want to do.
“So, I'm focused only on this season. It's not something I want to drag out in the offseason. Brian has been honest with me in all my conversations. I don't think that will change. After the season, we'll sit down, hopefully after a championship to figure out the next steps.
