Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has named his biggest “disappointment” while working with legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Four-time NFL MVP Rodgers, 39, has played 18 seasons at Green Bay, helping the franchise win its only Super Bowl in the new century in 2010. Four of those seasons he worked with head coach LaFleur, however the Packers ultimately came up short with a playoff record of 2-3.
Rodgers announced this month his desire to join the New York Jets in search of a new challenge but as he’s not a free agent, compensation has to be agreed with the Packers, and an NFL draft deadline has been set.
And with a departure looking likely for Rodgers ahead of the 2023 season, head coach LaFleur has opened up on his biggest “disappointment” while working with the quarterback.
“I've got nothing but love and appreciation for what Aaron has done for so many in our organisation," the coach said, as relayed by reporter Mike Garafolo. "A lot of memories and won games. Not winning a Super Bowl is ultimately disappointing" but appreciates their years together."
The Packers and LaFleur are now all in on the development of the air to Rodgers’ throne, Jordan Love. However, LaFleur has called for patience for the 24-year-old ahead of a big transitional season.
“It is what it is, but at the same time we’re excited about Jordan (Love),” LaFleur said. “We all have to temper our expectations for him… it’s a process.”
Rodgers isn’t the only big name quarterback who could be on the move ahead of the new season. Baltimore Ravens star and 2019 MVP, Lamar Jackson, stated his intentions to secure a trade away amid a contract standoff.
As a result, the Ravens placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Jackson early this year, which allows a player to negotiate with other teams. If a player on a non-exclusive tag agrees to a deal with a new team, the original team can match it or refuse and be awarded two first-round picks as compensation.