WATCH: Green Bay Packers GM discusses approach with Aaron Rodgers
Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst spoke with the media on Wednesday about the upcoming offseason and the future of Aaron Rodgers. While he shot down multiple “hypothetical” questions from reporters, he did provide a glimpse into the ongoing relationship between quarterback and organization.
Coming into the 2021 season, tension were high after a tumultuous offseason between Brian Gutekunst and Aaron Rodgers which culminated in a restructured contract and promise of one more year.
“Coming into this season after everything that had happened last summer, it was difficult for both Aaron and the organization,” said Gutekunst. “But I’ve gotta give him a lot of credit with the way he came in. What he gave to our organization and the team this year was impressive. I credit a lot of that to him and the way he came in. Our relationship now… I’m very positive about it.”
As the season thawed everyone’s hearts on the relationship just a bit, Rodgers spoke more and more about his appreciation for the Packers on his way to another MVP award. However, the new offseason brings more questions about his future whether by trade or retirement.
“Obviously everything around here kind of centers around the quarterback, that’s kind of how we do things,” said Gutekunst. “So it’s a big piece, it’s a domino that kind of has to fall before we go down other avenues. It’s important as we go through this – and the puzzle pieces we’ve gotta make fit – so that’s the first one to go.”
The Packers also have several other areas of need on the roster. If the two-time reining MVP opts to leave Green Bay, some type of rebuild could come soon after.
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As Brian Gutekunst continued to field questions about his relationship with Aaron Rodgers, not everyone got an answer. When asked whether the Packers were willing to trade their star quarterback if a request came in, the general manager shut things down.
“Those are some hypotheticals,” said Gutekunst. “I don’t think we’re gonna go down those roads right now.”
With pending decisions about the defense, along with wide receiver Davante Adams looming this offseason and an approaching franchise tag deadline, the clock is ticking for everyone’s decision. However, no pressure is being applied.
“I think this has been more of a conversation about where we’re headed together,” said Gutekunst. “There’s a process which obviously we’re going through, there’s a process that he’s going through and we’re very respectful of that.”