Packers just took the first step in convincing Aaron Rodgers to stay

December 24, 2022 ndowd

If the Green Bay Packers plan to prove to Aaron Rodgers that it’s worth sticking around in Wisconsin, this is a good first step.

The Green Bay Packers have contractual control over Aaron Rodgers for some time yet, but that doesn’t mean Rodgers won’t try to force a trade or simply retire. The 10-time Pro Bowler and four-time MVP has seemed discontent with the Packers and football in general at times over the last several seasons.

This season, while not over yet, has proven to be one of the worst yet since Rodgers took over starting quarterback duties.

With few weapons to utilize in the passing game, Rodgers has been severely limited by personnel which has led to his worst season since 2017 in yards per passing attempt and worst season in yards per game since becoming a full-time starting quarterback.

So there’s a case to be made that maybe Rodgers will simply want out, and pressure for the Packers to make moves to restore Rodgers’ faith in the team’s ability to win.

The team took a good first step on Friday.

Packers signed OL Elgton Jenkins to a contract extension

Elgton Jenkins, the starting left guard for Green Bay, has performed well this year and achieved a 74.4 grade per Pro Football Focus.

Sources: The #Packers and star OL Elgton Jenkins have agreed to terms on a massive 4-year extension worth $68M base value with a max value of $74M. The deal, which makes him the 2nd highest paid guard in the NFL, was done by Damarius Bilbo & Kelton Crenshaw of @KlutchSports. pic.twitter.com/1Y4pPtN2eW

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 23, 2022

Regardless of who is under center, Jenkins has earned this extension.

Quarterbacks like Rodgers are looking for any way to extend their careers as long as possible if they choose to continue playing. While off-field measures can help condition and prepare the body and mind for the rigors of an NFL season, there is no substitute for strong pass protection.

The changes Green Bay made that got the most attention this season have been the deficiencies in the receiving room. Rodgers lost Davante Adams this offseason and the Packers failed to replace him. While they still need to fix that hole before the 2023 season, it would have been even worse if the Packers moved forward without securing a talent like Jenkins, who was going to be a free agent this offseason if they didn’t agree to a contract extension.

It’s a good first step to convince Rodgers the Packers are committed to getting him what he needs to chase one more Super Bowl in his career’s twilight era.

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