Aaron Rodgers has been the Green Bay Packers’ franchise quarterback for his entire NFL career—18 seasons—but his
departure is a simple example of how all good things must come to an end.
Rodgers began his football career at Butte College in 2002, then transferred to the University of California to play for
the Golden Bears. During that time, he set multiple career records, including the lowest single-season and overall
interception rates. He was drafted to play in the National Football League by the Green Bay Packers in 2005, serving
as Brett Favre’s backup for the first three years. In 2008, he was Green Bay’s starting quarterback, and by 2010, he
had led them to a Super Bowl victory over the Steelers. In 2011, he received league MVP and was voted the
Associated Press Athlete of the Year.
However, the Packers’ 2022/2023 season was not particularly successful, and football analysts (unfairly) tend to
blame the quarterback when the team’s performance deteriorates. Here’s why Aaron Rodgers is leaving the Packers
and where he has re-signed.
Why is Aaron Rodgers departing the Green Bay Packers? On April 24, 2023, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that
the New York Jets and Green Bay Packers had agreed to deal Rodgers. Aaron Rodgers is traded to the Jets along with
their first-round pick (No. 15) and a 2023 fifth-round pick (No. 170) in exchange for New York’s 2023 first-round
pick (No. 13), a 2023 second-round pick (No. 42), a 2023 sixth-round pick (No. 207), and a conditional 2024
second-round pick that becomes a first if Rodgers plays 65% of the plays this season.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst responded to the move, stating, “It wouldn’t have been the end of the
world.” However, I believe it would have had a significant impact on the situation. So having it done was crucial. I
merely believe that the capital for this year was extremely vital, if not more valuable than future assets, for our
football club. So, there were several causes, but that is why.”
