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The Packers lost 13-10 to the 49ers on a walk-off field goal in the NFC divisional round Saturday night at Lambeau Field. Almost immediately afterward, questions were being raised again about the future of Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Rodgers (20-for-29 passing, 225 yards, no touchdowns, no interceptions) told reporters he was "numb" from the loss, which dropped him to 0-4 all time vs. the Niners in the playoffs.
Aaron Rodgers said he’s a little numb. “Disappointed in the offense… the defense played outstanding… special teams definitely hurt us…”
— Lily Zhao (@LilySZhao) January 23, 2022IYER: Playoff loss reheats Rodgers trade rumors
As to be expected, Rodgers said he would take time in the offseason to evaluate everything and have conversations with people before making a decision prior to the start of free agency.
Aaron Rodgers to reporters tonight: “I’m gonna take some time and have conversations with the folks around here, and then take some time away and make a decision - obviously before free agency.”
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 23, 2022What stood out in particular in Rodgers' comments was his assessment of the Packers moving forward. He said he didn't want to be part of a rebuild.
Rodgers on whether this team is still set up to win a Super Bowl with all the pending free agents and salary-cap issues, he said:
"That's a fair question -- definitely one I've thought about."
He added: "I don't want to be a part of a rebuild if I'm going to keep playing." https://t.co/QGaoaVRI8S
MORE: 49ers stun Packers to advance to NFC title game
But Rodgers also acknowledged that the team will likely look different next season as the Packers have just $44 million in cap space, second-lowest in the NFL behind the Saints.
Among those Rodgers will talk to about his future and the direction of the Packers is general manager Brian Gutekunst. Rodgers said postgame that their relationship had improved. Before any of those conversations occur, however, Rodgers will first process the loss.
Rodgers says he’ll talk to Gutey in the next week and will consider “how much longer” he wants to play. The loss is too fresh to contemplate his future, he adds.
— Bill Huber (@BillHuberSI) January 23, 2022BENDER: What went wrong for Packers in playoff loss to 49ers?
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