USA Today via Reuters
Jan 16, 2021; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers throws a pass in the first quarter during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports/Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 16, 2021; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers throws a pass in the first quarter during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports/Reuters
An exciting new season of the NFL will begin on September 11. Most of the teams are busy gearing up for their preparation. So are the Green Bay Packers, a major contender this season. NFL legend and quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, is their major trump card.
However, it came as a matter of surprise for many Packers supporters when head coach, Matt LaFleur said he is unlikely to field Rodgers for the next pre-season game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday.
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Aaron Rodgers will miss the game time
The head coach confirmed that the starters, who sat in the first two preseason games, will not play against the Chiefs. As Rodgers missed out on the first two matchups, the superstar will again have to wait for his opportunity to get the much-required game time.
They’ve won 2 of their last 3 week 1 games without giving starters any preseason snaps.
— Jacob (@NotionsOfJacob) August 23, 2022
Reacting to Rodger’s absence, many fans expressed their anger on Twitter.
Sammy Watkins was held out of the 1st preseason game along with the other starters, Aaron Rodgers went out of his way to say he's one of the only reliable WR's they have.Yet I still see people suggest he won't make the team. People have been doing that since day 1.I don't get it.
— Wisconsin Family (@Wisconsin_fam) August 17, 2022
Several fans are of the opinion that the coach is taking calculative risks, which may prove costly for the success of their side. They question the strategy of leaving out their impact players and trying out new combinations.
At best I think it's just lots of optimism about the rookies being great and ready early and so with Lazard and Cobb sure things, he's being overlooked.
But yeah he's clearly going to be WR2 at least, probably get more targets on a per snap basis than 13 but will play less snaps
— The_Glonk (@The_Glonk) August 17, 2022
Another sect of fans, who are fine with resting Rodgers, feel that the timing behind such a move is not right because the NFL season is fast approaching. They view that a team of Packers’ caliber must focus on the field combinations rather than experimenting at this point in time.
Aaron Rodgers is the impact player
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Aaron Rodgers, one of the best quarterbacks in present times, is not worried about his absence and instead his focus is mostly on building the team forward for the championship. Recently, he asked the rookie WRs to follow the team playbook and get a hang of the game before it is too late.
USA Today via Reuters
Jan 24, 2021; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Shaquil Barrett (58) sacks Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) during the first quarter in the NFC Championship Game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
The 38-year-old places himself in a mentorship role, which is why many fans think his absence is a lost opportunity for the newcomers. The absence of Rodgers means the players will miss out on some experienced guidance on the field and could affect the team set-up and style of play.
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As a result, fans are calling out in support of the QB. They want him to return soon and lift his team forward. However, a question remains on when will he fit into the final playing list. It may happen soon because Rodgers is an unavoidable name, and he is their go-to guy for the title.
Watch This story: A Different Aaron Rodgers
