Aaron Rodgers and I have a complicated relationship. And it’s not really a relationship. It’s not too complicated either.
I met him once. I’ve never interviewed him, I’ve never spoken to him on the phone. In 2016, he called me out for my analysis of the Packers’ issues, warning the audience not to waste their time reading and such. In 2021, I strongly object to his “I’ve been vaccinated” word games with reporters.
But that’s all in the past. Water under the bridge. Days and days passed. Right now, I like Aaron Rodgers.
Yes, I said it. I love this guy who plays for the Jets.
He is happy. He is weak. He loves his companions. He loves the game. He knew he was about to make his last football tour of the day.
Is it an act? At first, I thought he was overdoing it as a middle finger to the Packers front office. Now, I think he’s really happy with the direction his life and career is going, and it shows.
Maybe it’s the change of scenery. Maybe these are the hours in a dark closet. Regardless, the new Aaron Rodgers is almost as likable as Fred Rogers.
Chris Simms and I discussed Thursday’s dynamic PFT Live. People can change, grow, and develop. Rodgers has. Maybe I am too.
Regardless, I want to see him and the Jets do well this year. I know Bills, Dolphins, and Patriots fans might not appreciate that, but I can’t help my feelings.
And now I feel differently about Aaron Rodgers than I have in a long time. Of course, maybe he has feelings for me. But it’s okay. He’s not the first, and he won’t be the last.
Besides, why is it necessary for us not to like people who do not like us? This “I’ll be nice to you if and only if you’re nice to me” needs to end. It’s OK to be nice to those who don’t like us back, to like those who don’t like us back.
Right now, I like Aaron Rodgers.
Maybe it was something I ate.