Aaron Rodgers to contemplate concept of QB change if Packers are eradicated with ‘open thoughts’

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Aaron Rodgers is taking part in Sunday in opposition to the Chicago Bears regardless of his newest harm, this one to his ribs, and the Inexperienced Bay Packers quarterback would not plan on that altering the remainder of the season.

Besides in the event that they’re out of playoff competition.

At 4-8 and teetering on the verge of elimination, that might turn into a actuality sooner reasonably than later — at which level Rodgers stated he understands {that a} dialog will virtually definitely be had about his standing for the rest of the season.

That is largely due to Jordan Love, the third-year backup quarterback who hasn’t performed a lot significant soccer in his profession. He confirmed some promise in reduction of Rodgers after he left Sunday’s sport in opposition to the Eagles due to the rib harm.

“Look, I would love to complete the season out, however I perceive this can be a enterprise and there is a variety of us form of older guys who play an honest quantity they usually would possibly need to see some youthful guys play,” Rodgers stated Wednesday. “Hopefully we do not have to have that dialog. But when that dialog comes up, I am going to method that with an open thoughts and with none bitterness or resentment. Clearly, like I stated, I need to win out and we do not have to have these conversations. I perceive if we do not that is a chance to have that dialog.”

To make certain, Rodgers by no means stated he would welcome that — simply that he would perceive it is one thing the staff must take into account.

The one different time Rodgers didn’t end out a season when the Packers have been out of playoff competition was 2017. He got here again from a damaged collarbone in Week 15 in opposition to the Panthers however after the Packers misplaced that sport and have been eradicated from the playoffs with two video games remaining, Rodgers went again on injured reserve. That was merely procedural, and Rodgers would have tried to maintain taking part in in the event that they have been nonetheless within the hunt.

When requested if that may be a greater plan of action to ensure he is absolutely wholesome for subsequent yr, Rodgers stated: “I imply, that is an assumption that this place will not look any completely different subsequent yr. Once more, that is a part of the dialog.”

Rodgers has not stated whether or not he plans to play in 2023, however he has a assured $59.5 million ready for him if he does. Rodgers didn’t follow Wednesday however stated he threw a number of passes and felt a lot better than he did when he exited Sunday’s sport. He stated if the development continues, he may follow both Thursday or Friday this week.

He wouldn’t say whether or not he has damaged ribs or an harm to the cartilage within the rib cage however hinted that it might be the latter, just like what Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert had earlier this season.

“Probably, yeah,” Rodgers stated when Herbert’s harm was talked about.

Whatever the specifics, Rodgers stated he’ll most likely put on some kind of rib safety for the primary time in his NFL profession.

“Yeah, I most likely will, to guard it a bit of bit extra,” he stated. “I have not worn rib pads since faculty. I am unsure I need to begin now, however I am going to most likely positively have one thing overlaying it up.”