Mike Florio claims Packers have been manipulating their quarterback: “They know how to placate Aaron Rodgers”
Green Bay Packers fans have lamented the team's failure to go all-in with Aaron Rodgers for much of his career. One NFL analyst has given his theory as to why the quarterback routinely fails to receive quality talent via trade.
Speaking on the "Rich Eisen Show," NFL analyst Mike Florio claimed the team was effectively lying to Rodgers. Here's how he put it:
"[The] initial question is, did the Packers really want Chase Claypool? Because if they did, they could have found a way to get Chase Claypool. Just like last year with Odell Beckham Jr. Did they really want him? If they did, they could have found a way to get him."
Two guys who all-time miss each other right now: Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams.
Florio went on to explain how the Packers have been acting like they're trying, but are failing to make a true effort:
"They know how to placate Aaron Rodgers by trying, but I think they're running a little bit of a grift on him where they're like 'Aaron, we're really going to try to do this all.' [Then,] 'Sorry it didn't work out.' And he accepts it and moves on. That's part of the reality."
The idea that the #Packers could trade Davante Adams, add a couple rookies, and still compete was ludicrous to begin with. Aaron Rodgers is receiving a ton of blame, but this front office has been one of the worst in the #NFL for years. Figure it out now or jobs should be taken.
Lastly, he underlined his distrust of the quality of the organization's efforts to bring in talent:
"They placate him and they listen to him, but do they really listen to him...? I don't know that they really want to make these moves. They want to make Aaron Rodgers think they tried [but,] deep down, I wonder how hard they're trying."
Aaron Rodgers' surrounding talent in 2022
At running back, the Green Bay Packers have quality talent in Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon. Through eight games, Jones has rushed for 575 yards, while Dillon has rushed for 355 yards. Both players have a shot at reaching 1000 yards this season.
However, out wide, the team is less impressive in the wake of losing Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Allen Lazard, the team's leading receiver, has 340 yards and four touchdowns. Romeo Doubs has 296 yards and three touchdowns, while Randall Cobb has 257 yards and zero touchdowns. In comparison, a top receiver like Stefon Diggs of the Buffalo Bills has 764 yards and seven touchdowns.
This effectively means there is a receiver in the league with about as much production as Green Bay's top three receivers.
Without a trade, many expect the pattern to continue. Will the Packers find a new gear without a trade or will Aaron Rodgers fall into obscurity this season after a 3-5 start?
If any of the above quotes are used, please credit the Rich Eisen Show and H/T Sportskeeda.