Packers blaming Aaron Rodgers for recent free agency lull is lazy

The Green Bay Packers have not made any moves past the re-signing of Aaron Jones for one specific reason.

Prior to the start of the 2021 league year, the Green Bay Packers made a huge move in re-signing running back Aaron Jones on a four-year, $48 million contract days after refusing to place the franchise tag on him. Besides that, there has been nothing but cricket noises coming out of the Packers facility. There is a specific reason why that is the case.

According to Michael Silver of NFL Media, the Packers are trying to negotiation a restructuring of quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ contract with the purpose of freeing up cap space.

Packers: Aaron Rodgers’ contract holding up free agency moves

How the Packers restructure Rodgers’ deal remains the question. Let’s not gloss over the fact that this very team traded up in the first-round of last year’s NFL Draft to select Utah State quarterback Jordan Love. Will they rework Rodgers’ deal to ensure that he is their starter for the foreseeable future, or will they find a way to transition to Love? That is what makes this situation one that needs to be followed.

The lack of cap space is the reason why the Packers are one of two teams that have yet to sign a free agent off another team. Besides Jones, there has been nothing going on. However, they did see starting center Corey Linsley sign a massive contract with the Los Angeles Chargers and running back Jamaal Williams and backup quarterback Tim Boyle sign with the rival Detroit Lions.

Green Bay is in a position where they could stand to bring in upgrades at the cornerback and wide receiver positions. With the top options off the board, the Packers can either choose cost-effective scheme fits or opt to use their draft capital to address those needs. Maybe general manager Brian Gutekunst will finally draft a wide receiver for Rodgers in the first-round.

For those wondering why the Packers have been sitting idle this offseason, it is because they are trying to free up extra spending money with a restructure of Rodgers’ contract. Once that happens, we will hear more from the Packers in terms of transactions.