On the first Saturday of every month, Mark will write about a topic of interest to Packers fans and the organization, and then answer five fan questions. Fans are encouraged to email Mark with their name and hometown at:
The week of the draft is always a busy and important week for NFL teams. For the Packers this year, though, it was especially important given that the historic trade of Aaron Rodgers was finalized on the eve of the draft.
We had been working with the Jets on the terms of the trade for quite a while. As is the case in most negotiations, it takes a deadline to bring the parties together. In this case, the draft was the key. We wanted picks in this year’s draft, and let the Jets know that if the trade took place after this year’s draft, the compensation would have certainly been different because the picks would come in the future. Ultimately, I think the trade was a win for both teams. I give Brian Gutekunst a lot of credit for his patience and determination in finalizing the trade. Russ Ball and Matt LaFleur also deserve credit for their roles in finalizing the trade.
It was bittersweet seeing Aaron’s career with the Packers end this way. He had an 18-year run with the Packers, the longest in team history. He was clearly one of the best players in team history and will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. We wish him the best in New York and will welcome him back to Lambeau Field to retire his number and celebrate his induction into the Packers Hall of Fame once his playing career ends.
I thought Brian and his personnel staff did an excellent job addressing our needs in the draft. With 13 picks, we were able to draft edge rushers, tight ends and wide receivers that should be able to help our team this year. As you can see from the question below, not everyone thinks we had a strong draft. That’s the beauty of the draft – everyone has an opinion on it. The true test of a draft, though, is two to three years down the road.
To top it all off, we were able to enter into a contract extension with Jordan Love that we believe is good for both Jordan and the organization.
Now, on to your questions.
I think whoever wins the Super Bowl should get to host the next draft. Solves that problem. Adds incentive. You’ve probably thought of this. Maybe. I don’t know…that’s why we pay you the big bucks. Great job.
Interesting proposal, John, and I had not thought of this! The main issue that I see with your idea is that it takes several…
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