The reported trade package for Aaron Rodgers is enough
If the Packers can indeed land two second-round picks from the Jets with a realistic shot at one graduating to a first-rounder, they should consummate the deal.
Two weeks have passed since Aaron Rodgers informed the world that his "intention was to play for the New York Jets." In that time, just about every conceivable take and angle on the matter has launched into orbit, including whether or not the Green Bay Packers hold the upper hand in negotiations, the readiness of Jordan Love to fill Rodgers' shoes, and how the four-time MVP's transition to the AFC alters the landscape of the NFL. The only thing that hasn't surfaced is a finalized trade agreement.
The two sides have expressed optimism that a deal will come together in a timely fashion. During the NFL's annual league meeting this week, Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst said he believes "it's trending hopefully in the right direction for what everybody wants." Gutekunst's New York counterpart, GM Joe Douglas, expressed similar sentiments, stating, "There's been some productive conversations. We're not where we need to be yet, but I feel we're in a good place."
Still, neither party detailed exactly what hurdles stand between them and a completed deal. The lack of clarity has prevented anyone on the outside from gauging approximately what price the Jets will pay in order to secure Rodgers' services.
Though a trade agreement remains elusive, the rough parameters of the trade package have surfaced. According to a new report from Yahoo Sports' Charles Robinson, the talks have largely focused on two picks, one coming in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft and the other coming in the second round next year. The latter pick could "graduate" to a first-rounder if the Jets reach "achievable" team performance escalators like hosting a home divisional-round game or reaching the AFC Championship Game.
Some issues remain unresolved. The Packers want the picks to convey regardless of how much longer Rodgers, who turns 40 in December, ultimately plays. The Jets would like some kind of protection if the veteran quarterback walks away after the upcoming season such as Green Bay sending back some draft compensation in 2025 if he lasts only one year in New York. Other considerations like including other players in the deal could also factor into the delay.
Those granular details matter, but they don't form the crux of the agreement. If the Packers can procure two second-round picks with one potentially converting into a first-rounder, they should consummate the deal.
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