Green Bay Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy says the team remains committed to Aaron Rodgers "in 2021 and beyond" despite reports the future Hall of Fame quarterback doesn't want to return to the team.
In his monthly column on the Packers website, Murphy acknowledges Rodgers' frustration "is an issue that we have been working on for several months" and that he, GM Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur have been working with the three-time MVP to resolve the issues that exist.
"We are very much aware of Aaron's concerns and have been working with him (and his agent Dave Dunn) to resolve them," Murphy wrote. "We remain committed to Aaron in 2021 and beyond. He is not only a tremendously talented player, but has developed into a true leader for us.
"The relationship that Aaron has forged with Matt and the other offensive coaches has propelled us to the brink of the Super Bowl in two straight years. We look forward to competing for another Super Bowl championship with Aaron as our leader."
Reports of Rodgers' apparent desire to leave the Packers emerged on Thursday ahead of the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The reigning MVP's frustration reportedly stems from multiple issues, including contract negotiations and the team's decision to trade up to select quarterback Jordan Love in the first round of last's year draft.
The 37-year-old has reportedly told teammates and some within the Packers organization that he doesn't plan on returning to the team.
Despite Rodgers' unhappiness with the team, Gutekunst said on Thursday night after the first round of the draft that they "are not going to trade Aaron Rodgers."
"I’m not going to speak for Aaron, but I think obviously we have a really good team and I do think he’ll play for us again,” Gutekunst said. “Like I said, we’re going to work toward that and we’ve been working toward that on a number of different fronts. The value that he adds to our football team is really immeasurable, you know what I mean? He brings so much to the table not only as a player but as a leader. He’s so important to his teammates, to his coaches, so yeah, that’s the goal.”
Rodgers has three years remaining on his contract after signing a four-year, $134 million extension in August 2018.
-- With files from The Associated Press
