It's Time to Take the Aaron Rodgers-Broncos Rumors Seriously
Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers have been making nice ever since the 2021 season ended. Whereas last offseason was a mess, it seems both sides feel good about their relationship. But that doesn't mean Rodgers will be returning to Green Bay.
On Friday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Rodgers is torn on where he wants to play in 2022. And, if he doesn't return to the Packers, the other option "has always been the Denver Broncos." We kind of knew that last summer, but we've now had it confirmed.
From our NFL Scouting Combine coverage: #Packers QB Aaron Rodgers is torn on where he wants to play, as Green Bay works to bring him home. pic.twitter.com/Qf7bhkMFRh
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 5, 2022
Why the Broncos? Well, Rodgers is extremely close with new Denver head coach Nathaniel Hackett. The two worked together in Green Bay over the past two seasons when Hackett was the Packers' offensive coordinator. Rodgers would likely jump at the chance to reunite.
The Broncos also have some weapons to build with. Young running back Javonte Williams looks like a stud, while Courtland Sutton and Jerry Jeudy are a solid receiving tandem. Plus, Denver has more than $39 million in salary cap space. Could they import Rodgers' top target Davante Adams if the Packers don't franchise tag him? It would make a lot of sense to do so.
On top of that, Denver is a respected organization, the same way Green Bay is. John Elway -- who is the team's president of football operations -- convinced Peyton Manning to finish his career there. Could he pull the same trick off twice? I wouldn't put it past him.
Rodgers is coming off back-to-back MVP seasons and the vibes in Green Bay are night and day compared to last offseason. But if we know anything about the 38-year-old quarterback it's that we should expect the unexpected from him. He could always decide to force a trade.
The next few weeks should be interesting.