Former Packers star turned rival has a stern message for Aaron Rodgers

Former Green Bay Packers linebacker Za’Darius Smith can’t wait to take on former quarterback Aaron Rodgers in 2022.

There were many departures on the Green Bay Packers this offseason, the most notable name on the offensive side of the ball being wide receiver Davante Adams. On the defensive side, the Packers released linebacker Za’Darius Smith from his contract, becoming a free agent. After initially agreeing to a deal with the Baltimore Ravens, Smith instead chose to sign with Green Bay’s NFC North rivals, the Minnesota Vikings.

Back in a May appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show”, Smith spoke about the Vikings taking on the Packers in Week 1 of the 2022 season, and revealed that he is looking forward to facing quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

You can take a listen to Smith’s comments in “The Rich Eisen Show’s” tweet below (1:00 mark):

Za’Darius Smith can’t wait to face Aaron Rodgers, Packers in Week 1

Who doesn’t want to face their former team? It’s a way for the player to prove to the organization that they were wrong for releasing or trading them. Just ask Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield that, who said he is looking forward to play the Cleveland Browns in Week 1 should he win the starting job in training camp.

The Vikings get to face off against the Packers, the team that eliminated them from playoff contention in Week 17 last year.

Smith gave a preview of what could be coming Rodgers’ way, as he posted a photo to his Twitter account of himself standing next to fellow pass rusher Danielle Hunter. The caption was simple — the date of the Week 1 matchup.

Last year, Smith only played in the season opener against the New Orleans Saints and the Divisional Round game against the San Francisco 49ers due to a back injury.

In his three seasons with the team, Smith logged 108 combined tackles, 60 quarterback hits, 26 sacks, five forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and two passes defended. He made it to the Pro Bowl in each of his first two years with the team.

The Vikings will look to make a statement against the Packers to begin their 2022 season under a new regime of general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and head coach Kevin O’Connell. Smith will look to show the Packers what they are missing on the defense.