On Tuesday at the NFL combine in Indianapolis, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst declined to comment on Aaron Rodgers' 2023 return. Until he talks to Rodgers, all possibilities are open.
Gutekunst stated, "We want what's best for Aaron and the Packers." "So we'll get to that once those conversations happen."
Since a season-ending meeting nearly two months ago, Gutekunst has only texted Rodgers. Last week, Rodgers contemplated retiring, returning to the Packers, or trading.
On the Marcus Aubrey Podcast, he said he wouldn't keep the Packers hostage by delaying his decision. Before free agency opens on March 15, the Packers should know Rodgers' plans.
Because Rodgers would lose $59.465 million, retirement is unlikely. If in the same Hall of Fame class as retired Tom Brady, he would be overshadowed.
After choosing to stay with the Packers instead of forcing a trade, Rodgers became the NFL's first $50 million player in March. The contract is $150.815 million over three years, with two below-market years (2025 and 2026).
Rodgers' contract was convoluted. Double option bonuses are rare in deals. Rodgers' 2023 basic salary is $59.465 million, guaranteed. To reduce Rodgers' 2023 basic salary to $1.165 million, he must pay $58.3 million to execute a $20.9 million option for 2025.
Rodgers earns $59.515 million in 2023. This option is available from March 15, 2023, through Green Bay's first regular season game in September.