NFL: Uncertain future for Aaron Rodgers, who “won’t regret if he retires”

Green Bay, Wis. – There were signs everywhere Sunday night that it was over for Aaron Rodgers: He left Lambeau Stadium with his arm around his best friend Randall Cobb, not wanting to give up his shirt. Emotions in the final moments of his post-match interviews.

Before anyone writes retirement papers, consider the other signs that came after the Green Bay Packers lost 20-16 to the Detroit Lions: He did and said certain things after the Packers were shut out last season. Finally in the playoffs. And the other season before.

This time, however, there will be no playoffs, all the Packers had to do Sunday night to advance to the playoffs was beat the Lions. Instead they finished the season with an 8-9 record and missed the playoffs for the first time since Matt Lafleur took over as head coach four seasons earlier.

“At some point the carousel stops and it’s time to get off… and I think I know when,” Rodgers said on Sunday. This is what must be considered. Is it time? Also, what is the direction of the organization? It is also an item. But the flame will always be there. I don’t think she will leave. Sometimes it is transferred to other things that may not fill that much void. But like I said, I feel good about what I’ve achieved in this league and I won’t have any regrets if I decide to retire. But I have to see what it looks like once I retire. »

In his latest season, Rodgers announced his decision to play in another season on March 8. He signed a three-year, $150 million contract extension moments later. The deal includes a $58.3 million bonus and more than $1 million in collateral if he plays the 2023 season. Rodgers insisted on Sunday he could leave without the money.

When asked about the limiting factor, Rodgers said, “It’s a feeling.” Then he listed several things that could affect his feelings.

“Do I feel like I still have things to prove to myself? Do I want to go back and don my gear for another season to give my all? Or is it time? Is it time to retire? Is it time for a new voice to lead this team?”, he said.

“I think I need to take some time to think about these things. They are real to me. I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished in this league, but I’m also realistic, and I understand what we’re like as a team. We’re a young team. There could be a change with some of the older players, And it’s time to retire. But I can take a moment and say, ‘Oh no, man, I have to get back in the game and give my all for another chance.’ But I have to see how it feels once I’m away from it all.”

Rodgers has admitted his decision could also be affected by the return or departure of players such as Kopp, David Bakhtiari, Mason Crosby and Marsdis Lewis.

Even the organization had trouble telling Rodgers in the face if the team still wanted him, which they did in public. Last month, general manager Brian Gutkunst told reporters he wanted Rodgers back. Lafleur said he believes the organization still feels the same way, even after Rodgers’ less productive seasons.