The Green Bay Packers surprised many people when they decided to use their first-round draft pick on a quarterback Thursday night, but one division rival coach is hoping it helps get rid of Aaron Rodgers.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer was asked for his reaction to the Packers taking Jordan Love with the No. 26 overall pick, and he had a great response. Zimmer said he’s hoping the pick leads to Rodgers calling it a career.
Mike Zimmer on what he thought when he saw Packers draft a QB at 26: "I think Rodgers should retire."
He laughed and said Vikings are just worried about us."
— Jon Krawczynski (@JonKrawczynski) April 24, 2020
While there is obviously no chance of that happening, the Love pick is a good indication that the Packers understand Rodgers is not immortal. The two-time NFL MVP will turn 37 before the end of next season, and he has battled some injuries in recent years. It’s unrealistic to think every star quarterback can play as long as Tom Brady or Drew Brees, so Green Bay is wise to start thinking about the future now.
Unfortunately for Zimmer, the Packers’ decision to take a quarterback in the first round may end up serving as motivation for Rodgers. He indicated as much with a comment he made leading up to the draft.
