NFL legend Aaron Rodgers addressed whether he would consider retiring as a Green Bay Packer during a live audience Q&A in Austin this week, offering a candid perspective on his legacy and his connection to Green Bay.
Aaron Rodgers Gets Brutally Honest About a Return to Green Bay
When asked directly about the possibility of returning to Green Bay to finish his career, Rodgers did not commit to the idea; instead, he reflected on his time with the Packers and his appreciation for the city and its fans.
Rodgers, who spent 18 seasons with the franchise and led the team to a Super Bowl title, acknowledged his fondness for Green Bay, but made clear that a return was unlikely, saying, “You know, I’ve thought about that and I don’t understand what the reason for that is. If I didn’t do it, would that make a difference in how I’m viewed in the Packers eyes? When I retire, in four years, I’m going to go into the Packer Hall of Fame. May or may not get my number retired—whether they do or not, that’s fine.”
“But in four years I’ll be in the Packer Hall of Fame…There’s a lot of love from me and how I feel about the team. If I do or if I don’t, I don’t think it should make a difference. I’m not sure yet. If they approach me about it, I probably would.”
Rodgers’ comments come as speculation continues about his future in the NFL and questions around a possible move to the Steelers.
Rodgers’ future in the NFL is in limbo, with mandatory training camps starting soon, the veteran quarterback has yet to find a home. The Steelers have had interest in Rodgers, but reports suggest the former Packer might be holding out for a roster spot on the Minnesota Vikings. Other reports suggest that Rodgers could wait till the last minute to sign a deal.
Rodgers has thrown for 62,952 yards, 503 touchdowns, and 116 interceptions while completing 65.1% of his pass attempts and 3,573 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns on 741 carries.
A lot of his success came during his 18-year spell with the Green Bay Packers, who picked him 24th overall in the 2005 NFL Draft. He won four NFL MVPs with the franchise while helping lead them to a Super Bowl XLV win, also collecting the MVP. He also earned 10 Pro Bowl nods and five All-Pro selections – four of which he was named to the first-team.