Aaron Rodgers is one of the most successful quarterbacks of the modern era and with the 38-year-old confirming he will sign a new contract with the Green Bay Packers it’s worth reflecting on his career.
College Career and Draft Shock
After attending Pleasant Valley High School in Chico, California, Rodgers failed to attract major interest from the top college sides. He went to Butte Community College where his impressive first season saw him transfer to California.
At Cal, Rodgers continued to put in impressive performances, leading the team to a 10-1 record in his only full season with the college. He threw 43 touchdowns and 13 interceptions for the program.
As a result of his college career and proximity to San Francisco, Rodgers expected to be drafted by the 49ers who had the first selection in the draft.
However San Francisco picked Alex Smith number one overall and Rodgers slid down to the 24th overall pick, where he was selected by the Green Bay Packers.
Early NFL Days
Rodgers was drafted by the Packers as back up to fellow legendary quarterback Brett Favre and spent his first three seasons in the league learning the ropes as back up.
Rodgers got his chance as starter in the 2008 season where he threw for 28 touchdowns and 13 interceptions as the Pack stumbled to a 6-10 record.
However the next season he led the team to an 11-5 record and made the playoffs for the first time, though they were beaten in the first round. However that would prove to be the set up for their historic 2010 season.
Super Bowl Winner and First MVP
Rodgers confirmed himself as one of the best quarterbacks in the league in 2010, leading his team to a 10-5 regular season record into the playoffs as a wildcard team.
The Packers then beat the Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and the Chicago Bears to make it to the Super Bowl.
Rodgers completed 24 of 39 passes for 304 yards and three touchdowns in a 31-25 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, picking up Super Bowl MVP honours in the process.
The following year, Rodgers won his first regular season MVP after setting a record for the best passer rating ever, 122.5. However his side were beaten in the playoffs by the New York Giants, a theme which would continue for the upcoming decade.
Rodgers’ Success but Playoff Heartache
Throughout the 2010s, Rodgers continued his outstanding performances, but ultimately the Packers struggled to get the job done in the playoffs, failing to return to the Super Bowl again following their 2010 win.
Rodgers picked up regular season MVP honours in 2014 before getting the award again in 2020 and 2021.
Despite that, his side have reached the NFC Championship game just once, in 2016, despite nine playoff appearances since their Super Bowl win.
Rodgers returns for the 2022 season with a new contract and will be looking to secure his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks ever with a second Super Bowl ring.