Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has stirred significant attention recently due to his COVID-19 status and subsequent statements. Having tested positive for COVID-19, Rodgers addressed the media, explaining his reasons for saying he was “immunized” and his decision against vaccination. Consequently, Rodgers will not participate in the upcoming game against the Kansas City Chiefs, adhering to the NFL’s protocols, and will stay away from the team facility for the next ten days.
Pat McAfee Show
Rodgers took to the “Pat McAfee Show” for 45 minutes to address the backlash, expressing strong opinions about the situation and referencing debunked arguments common among vaccine opponents. “I am somebody who’s a critical thinker,” Rodgers said. “I believe strongly in bodily autonomy and the ability to make choices for your body.” He emphasized that he is not an anti-vaxxer or a COVID-denier, stating he wanted to make the best choice for his health.
Rodgers detailed his adherence to NFL protocols, including daily testing, and mentioned he was targeted by the “woke mob.” He claimed to have tested for COVID over 300 times before the positive result and suggested he might have contracted the virus from a vaccinated player, although he did not provide specific details.
COVID-19 treatment
The three-time MVP stated he conducted extensive research on the vaccines and found he was allergic to components in both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, leading him to seek alternative treatments. His consultations included medical professionals and his friend Joe Rogan, who suggested ivermectin, a drug not approved by the FDA for COVID-19 treatment.
Rodgers’ appeal to the NFL for alternative treatment was rejected, and he asserted that his status was known to the Packers, his teammates, and the NFL when he addressed the media in August. He criticized certain NFL protocols, particularly the rule requiring unvaccinated players to maintain six feet of distance and wear masks when speaking to the media.
Rodgers mentioned a conversation with an NFL doctor who allegedly told him vaccinated individuals couldn’t catch or spread COVID, a claim later refuted by the NFL. He referenced Martin Luther King Jr., underscoring the moral obligation to oppose unjust rules. Excited for backup quarterback Jordan Love’s opportunity to play, Rodgers expressed his hope for an end to the “lying and witch hunt.”
Aaron Rodgers’ New Journey with the New York Jets
Aaron Rodgers has now embarked on a new chapter with the New York Jets. After a lengthy negotiation process, the Jets traded for Rodgers, who had grown dissatisfied with the Green Bay Packers over the past two seasons. He joined the Jets, bringing optimism to a franchise that has struggled to make the playoffs since 2010.
Rodgers arrived in New Jersey to a warm welcome at the Jets’ facility. He appeared relaxed and ready to lead the team, hoping to end their postseason drought. “I’m an old guy, so I want to be part of a team that can win it all,” said the 39-year-old quarterback.
The Jets and Packers finalized the trade terms, involving several draft picks, marking the end of Rodgers’ tenure with Green Bay. Rodgers, a Super Bowl winner and four-time MVP, expressed his discontent with the Packers’ management, citing poor communication and lack of input on personnel decisions.
A pivotal moment in Rodgers’ decision to join the Jets came after a visit from Jets executives in Malibu. Their conversation convinced him that New York was where he was meant to be. “I really try and listen to the signs and synchronicities that the universe puts in our face every day,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers’ relationship with Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who coached him in Green Bay, was another factor in his move. The Jets also boast promising young talent, including last season’s offensive and defensive rookies of the year, Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner.
Rodgers aims to mentor Jets’ quarterback Zach Wilson and contribute as a leader. Despite contemplating retirement after last season, Rodgers looks forward to making a significant impact with the Jets. His commitment to the team and optimism for their future underscores his belief in their potential.
Rodgers’ Absence from Mandatory Minicamp
The biggest news in the NFL offseason is Rodgers’ decision to skip the Jets’ mandatory minicamp. Coach Robert Saleh assured the media that Rodgers’ absence was pre-discussed and not an issue within the team. “Aaron and I are on the exact same page,” Saleh said, downplaying external concerns.
While no official reason for Rodgers’ absence has been provided, it appears he communicated his plans to Saleh in advance. This decision follows Rodgers’ brief appearance last season, which ended prematurely due to a season-ending torn Achilles. As Rodgers prepares for the upcoming season, he hopes to make a more substantial impact on the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did Aaron Rodgers say he was “immunized”?
Rodgers claimed to be “immunized” to suggest he had some level of protection against COVID-19. However, he later clarified that he was not vaccinated but had sought alternative treatments due to allergies to components in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
2. What alternative treatments did Rodgers pursue?
Rodgers mentioned consulting with various medical professionals and his friend Joe Rogan. He discussed using ivermectin, a drug not approved by the FDA for treating COVID-19, as part of his protocol.
3. Why did the NFL reject Rodgers’ alternative treatment appeal?
The NFL rejected Rodgers’ appeal because his alternative treatments did not meet the league’s vaccination requirements. Rodgers followed most protocols but disagreed with certain rules, like maintaining distance and wearing masks during media interactions.
4. How did Rodgers’ relationship with the Packers influence his move to the Jets?
Rodgers felt dissatisfied with the Packers’ management, particularly their lack of communication and input on personnel decisions. This strained relationship, along with the Jets’ promising potential and supportive management, influenced his decision to join the Jets.
5. What impact does Rodgers aim to have with the Jets?
Rodgers hopes to mentor younger players, like Zach Wilson, and lead the Jets to success. He believes in the team’s potential and looks forward to contributing both on and off the field, aiming to end their long postseason drought.