Aaron Rodgers has spent about two decades in the NFL. So, it’s safe to say that the veteran quarterback knows a thing or two about the mentality of franchises regarding draft picks. As the 2024 NFL trade deadline looms, Rodgers, now with the New York Jets, gave fans a sneak peek into how teams work their trade strategy.
Aaron Rodgers Dives Into Green Bay Packers’ Trade Strategy
The 40-year-old was on The Pat McAfee Show when he took a moment to reflect on the Packers’ conservative trade strategy. He poked fun at his former team’s reluctance to make big mid-season moves.
“I played 18 years in Green Bay. I know how teams feel about draft picks,” Rodgers said, indicating that the Packers preferred draft capital over veteran acquisitions.
He recalled moments when the addition of a proven veteran — like Marshawn Lynch — could have pushed the Packers over the top. Rodgers also acknowledged the complexities of integrating veteran players mid-season.
“That’s the other part about these veteran guys. You never know how it’s gonna fit in the locker room,” he explained. “Is the guy gonna fit in? Is he gonna make the culture better? You never quite know with these things. That’s why sometimes it’s a crapshoot.” He believes that culture and chemistry play critical roles in such decisions.
“I feel like draft picks are so important post-draft, when you think about next year, you’re at the end of the season, or now we’ve played nine weeks. It’s a little tight with some of these picks.”
"I played eighteen years in Green Bay and I know how teams feel about draft picks 😂😂
They've made some great picks over the years..
There were a couple times where maybe bringing in one more guy by trade could've been worth it"@AaronRodgers12 #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/gBYTH9gl0V
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) November 5, 2024
This season, the Packers have once again stayed quiet at the deadline, while Rodgers’ new team, the Jets, traded wide receiver Mike Williams to the Steelers for a fifth-round pick.
Rodgers hinted that the draft-pick obsession, common in Green Bay, often limits flexibility for teams in tight situations.
Green Bay Packers Make Move on NFL Trade Deadline Day
The Packers waited until the very last minute of the 2024 NFL trade deadline to move some fingers. Team management decided to part ways with veteran defensive end Preston Smith, trading him to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
It's a 7th rounder going back to GB for Preston Smith. https://t.co/Ob5Pd3GgBv
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 5, 2024
Looks like the Packers are rethinking their defensive strategy if they aim to stay competitive in a tough NFC playoff race. Smith has been a staple in Green Bay’s defense, applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks and racking up tackles and sacks over the years. While his departure will leave a void, it also allows younger players to step up.