Former NFL executive and current media analyst Michael Lombardi had a strong take on the Green Bay Packers QB situation Thursday. Appearing on the Pat McAfee Show, Lombardi said that the Packers and Aaron Rodgers will be together beyond this year, and called the idea of playing backup Jordan Love the remainder of the year “ridiculous.” Watch below:
"Aaron Rodgers signed a contract for three years.. he'll be playing QB for the Packers in 2023" ~@mlombardiNFL#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7iJWSS0Ahj
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) December 1, 2022
There is a fair amount to unpack here. Lombardi makes no mention of Rodgers potentially retiring. It feels like retirement could happen any year and Rodgers has not been very forthcoming about his intentions. The Packers have to consider this as a possibility, and have a plan in place in case that happens. With that in mind, it isn’t ridiculous at all to consider giving Jordan Love some playing time. Maybe not this week since the Packers are still technically alive for the playoffs, but beyond that it should definitely be considered.
Rodgers’ Health
Additionally, Lombardi mentions Rodgers’ health, which is something to consider in the short and long term. Obviously, you want to take care of your player and protect him from himself. Beyond that obvious point, if the Packers do expect Rodgers back next year, it would behoove them to prevent worsening his injuries in a lost season. Also, and I’m not saying this is likely, but if they have plans to trade him, his value would be less if he’s recovering from multiple major injuries.
Looking Ahead
As stated above, the Packers are still mathematically in the playoff race and an injured Rodgers still likely gives them the best chance to win on Sunday. But Lombardi calling the idea of giving Love a look in live game action “ridiculous” seems unfair to me. The Packers have a lot to consider after a disappointing season, so any suggestion with the future in mind should be in play at this point.
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