(670 The Score) - After months of speculation about his future, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is expected to suit up for Green Bay in the 2021 season.
Rodgers has told those close to him that he plans to play for the Packers this season, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported Monday. The development comes after Rodgers skipped the Packers' offseason program amid a feud with management and told some individuals he'd like to leave the organization, leaving wonders to whether he'd play for Green Bay in the 2021 season.
Later Monday afternoon, news broke that the Rodgers and the Packers were finalizing details of an agreement that would have Rodgers show up at training camp, but which also could set up his departure from Green Bay after the upcoming season, Adam Schefter of ESPN reported.
The concessions by the Packers didn't include giving Rodgers more money but did entail voiding the 2023 season on Rodgers' contract and agreeing not to use any tags on him, according to Schefter.
While Rodgers has been mum on the specific reasons behind his displeasure with the Packers organization, multiple reports have linked it to his frustration over how he hasn't been prioritized. The friction began in April of 2020 when the Packers selected quarterback Jordan Love in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Rodgers, 37, produced his third MVP season in 2020 by throwing for 48 touchdowns and 4,299 yards, while leading the Packers to a 13-3 record and NFC North crown.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst expressed his optimism on Monday that Rodgers would be with the team this season.
“We have been working tirelessly with Aaron and his representatives to resolve the issues [with Rodgers], and we are hopeful for a positive resolution," Gutekunst said while at the Packers' shareholders meeting at Lambeau Field.
Rodgers remains under contract with the Packers through 2023. It's unclear whether the two sides will agree to restructuring his deal as part of an anticipated return to Green Bay for training camp.
The Packers visit the New Orleans Saints for their regular season opener on Sunday, Sept. 12.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.