What next for Aaron Rodgers?

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers gave a subtle nudge about his future during his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show. His statements were so definitive that his most striking response has two parts.

He undoubtedly doubled down on continuously playing at a high level by saying, “Do I think I can still play? Of course. Can I play at a high level? The highest – I think I can win MVP again in the right situation.”

The next part may indicate that he is considering moving to another team. The four-time NFL Most Valuable Player shared, “Is the right situation in Green Bay or somewhere else? I’m not sure. I don’t think you should shut down any opportunities. I think there’s more conversations to be had.”

For a man who doesn’t shy away from sharing his thoughts, those words may hint at a massive change in Green Bay. Therefore, will Rodgers leave the franchise he took to victory in Super Bowl XLV, suited for since 2005, and started since 2008? His actions after their season finale may paint a telling picture.

He was arm-in-arm with Randall Cobb as they walked down the Lambeau Field tunnel. Rodgers also declined to swap jerseys with Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams.

Can the Packers save the situation and have him back in 2023? Or will he write a new chapter elsewhere? It’s best to look at his contract situation before jumping into further speculation.

Trade would take a king’s ransom

Any team wanting to have the 39-year-old quarterback must absorb most, if not all, of his $31.6 million cap hit for 2023. That figure is massive, especially for a play-caller that will likely be a rental than a long-term solution. Acquiring Rodgers may make the team look good next season, but it will end up starting from scratch at quarterback in 2024.

The gamble may pay off, considering Rodgers performed well in 2022. Despite not having a steady option in the passing game, he still had 3,695 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He continues to perform at a high level, even at the tail end of his career. But is it worth paying an arm and a leg to get that production for one year? Still, some teams can use his services.

Does staying in Green Bay make sense?

Rodgers mentioned that he doesn’t want to hold the franchise hostage regarding his decision. However, the Packers front office must work double time to keep the veteran play-caller. Otherwise, they will be staring at a staggering $40.3 million dead cap if their long-time quarterback retires. But maintaining the status quo won’t cut it for Rodgers.

He has been asked several times to pull the team out of dire situations and keep his composure when things aren’t going to plan. Therefore, the Packers must do their part in sweetening the pot for Rodgers. The five-time All-Pro stated that he doesn’t want to be a part of a rebuild and that there’s no sense in coming back without a legitimate chance of winning his second Super Bowl title.

Either the team does a fantastic job developing receivers Christian Watson and Allen Lazard or adds another high-profile wideout. They must create room for the latter because they are already $16 million over the cap on a $235 million ceiling. Otherwise, Rodgers will walk away, potentially to a team with a familiar face.

Where next… Is the Raiders a possibility?

The Las Vegas Raiders benched long-time starter Derek Carr one year after leading the squad to the playoffs. Finding themselves seeking a new starter, a push for Rodgers presents some benefits. The ten-time Pro Bowler will line up with Davante Adams once again. Their partnership allowed the wide receiver from Fresno State to become a six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro.

The Packers and the Raiders can explore a Rodgers-for-Carr swap, especially if Green Bay deems Jordan Love still not ready to take over the Frozen Tundra crew. Both teams get an able quarterback, while their cap hits are pretty close. Rodgers is also the quintessential quarterback that fits the franchise’s tough-nosed identity.

More importantly, Rodgers gets to work with a talented bunch of skill position players. There’s Josh Jacobs, who rushed for 1,653 yards in 2022. Aside from Adams, who had 1,516 yards and 14 touchdowns, their receiving corps also features Mack Hollins, Darren Waller, Hunter Renfrow, and Foster Moreau.

Whatever happens, a move away from Green Bay for Rodgers would send shockwaves around the NFL.