Aaron Rodgers has dominated the NFC North throughout his career. Since becoming the Packers starting quarterback, he has led Green Bay to a 56-21-1 record against their fierce rivals. For no team is this more true than the Chicago Bears, against whom Rodgers owns a 22-5 record. His dominance against Chicago has been so complete, even he taunted that he owned them during a game in Chicago last season. Despite this, Rodgers recognizes talent when he sees it, and he went on The Pat McAfee Show with some high praise for Justin Fields.
The advice that Rodgers gives to younger players is certainly well-worth listening to. Oftentimes, fans see rookies struggle and are quick to label them as busts. Breakout rookie seasons by stars like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert make fans expect Pro Bowl caliber play from all rookies.
Many fans, especially Packers fans, forget that Aaron Rodgers was not a MVP-caliber player from Day One. After sitting behind Brett Favre for three seasons, Rodgers did not set the NFL on fire in his first season starting. He threw 28 touchdowns, but also a career-high 13 interceptions. The Packers were 6-10 that year, and many bemoaned Green Bay moving on from Favre.
It took many years, but Rodgers has refined his game by focusing on one or two things to improve upon in each offseason. If Justin Fields takes this approach, Rodgers thinks he will be a star. He may well be right. Such a development would be great for the Bears and Fields, but not so fun for Packers fans.
More must-reads: