Cory's Corner: Don't Worry About Blake Bortles

The No. 3 overall pick in 2014 was brought in to be a backup. 

The first thing we have to remember is not to panic. 

Blake Bortles isn’t going to be the starting quarterback of the Green Bay Packers. Bortles was signed to have another quarterback take snaps in camp. 

But most importantly, he was signed to be the Packers backup quarterback. 

Now I know what you’re thinking, “What about Jordan Love? Shouldn’t he be the backup quarterback?” Well, yes. In a rational world, the 26th overall pick should be expected to be a backup quarterback. However, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst recently said, “He’s got a long way to go,” when asked about Love.

Rodgers and the Packers know that the best place for Rodgers this upcoming season is wearing the G helmet and the green and gold. People that are close to Rodgers have been saying that things are getting closer to being mended. It also helps that Bortles and Aaron Rodgers know each other pretty well and Packers offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett was Bortles’ quarterbacks coach in Jacksonville. 

But here’s what you shouldn’t do. You shouldn’t look at Bortles’ 59.3 career completion percentage and instantly become discouraged. Remember, Bortles wasn’t signed to be a starting quarterback, he was signed to be a backup. And even if the unthinkable happens and Rodgers gets injured, Bortles gives the Packers a much better chance than Love. It might be two games better, but the bottom line is it’s better. 

Of course, now comes the obvious question: What about Jordan Love? Well, now this puts the Packers front office in a pickle. Do they hold on to three quarterbacks or do they open up the trade market for Love? 

The reason why that’s such a daunting question is because we know nothing about Love. The Packers don’t know what they will get back for a guy that they traded up for. Even if the Packers don’t trade Love, keeping three quarterbacks on the new 55-man roster will be tough because the offensive and defensive lines get decimated with injuries each year and that number is only going to go up with an added game. 

Either way, I wouldn’t worry. The Packers advanced to back-to-back NFC title games and this roster is ready to win the NFC. Can they get back to the title game by risking a roster spot for a No. 3 quarterback? 

You can worry about that, but the last thing you need to do is panic about Bortles. 

 

 

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__________________________

Cory Jennerjohn is a graduate from UW-Oshkosh and has been in sports media for over 15 years. He was a co-host on "Clubhouse Live" and has also done various radio and TV work as well. He has written for newspapers, magazines and websites. He currently is a columnist for CHTV and also does various podcasts. He recently earned his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. He can be found on Twitter: @Coryjennerjohn

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NFL Categories: 
9 points
 

Comments (106)

Fan-Friendly This filter will hide comments which have ratio of 5 to 1 down-vote to up-vote.
Packer_Fan's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:48 am

The Packers are hedging their bets. Bortles is a backup for as long as Rodgers is here. That is the preferred position. But until Rodgers signs or June 1st rolls around. I want Rodgers back for that is in the short term the best way to the Super Bowl. But I am not expecting Rodgers signing until just before the June 1st option for the Packers. If Rodgers doesn't sign, then the scenario of trading Rodgers become very real. And then Bortles will be competing for a starting job.

At lease one good thing. There is no additional rhetoric. So they must be talking. Again, I hope they sign Rodgers. This Love thing will work out on it's own. At some point Rodgers will be hurt and Love will get a chance to play. Until that time, Love will only be prospect with potential.

11 points
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Oppy's picture

May 15, 2021 at 12:25 pm

I'm really confused.
Rodgers is under contract.
What does Rodgers have to sign?

6 points
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Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 01:05 pm

A blood oath! Thanks, Since ‘61

6 points
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Lare's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:55 am

I suspect that Bortles will be the third string QB once Rodgers returns. Still can't figure out why they let Boyle go.

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Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:50 am

Because they expected Rodgers back at that point and wanted to give Boyle the best shot to catch on.

It really depends on if they want to gradually incorporate Love in all circumstances, and I’m not aware of any details on Bortles’ contract, but if they think Love is ready, if Rodgers is back BB could easily be released or traded.

1 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:14 am

Boyle was let go because paying an unproven 3rd string QB over $2 mil a year was a luxury for the cap strapped Pack. Boyle's 3 year stats were 3-4, 75 yards and a fumble. Detroit signed him to a one year deal for $2.4 mil.

Then the Rodger drama heated up. So Bortles is a huge upgrade for the QB room as insurance if Rodgers holds out, retires or is traded.

And if Rodgers returns, Bortles may still be on the new 55 player roster as he competes for back up with Love. I know Cory says having 3 QBs is a risk...but they did it last year with a 53 player roster.

I actually like Bortles replacing Boyle given current dynamics. And I think the Packers felt Love was going to be the #2 over Boyle anyway.

12 points
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Leatherhead's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:58 am

Cory is still in Denial.

0 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:04 am

What are you talking about?

"People that are close to Rodgers have been saying that things are getting closer to being mended."

Oh... THAT!!!! Yes. Agreed.

1 points
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MarkinMadison's picture

May 15, 2021 at 07:36 am

Worried about Bortles? I'm not worried about anything. Since clicking on a link at CHTV I've been working from home making $25,000 a week. Life is good. ;-)

17 points
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PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:18 am

Hahahahahahaha, 25 grand a week. You had me until I glanced at the name.

3 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:05 am

STELLAR, Mark!!!! Well done buddy!!!! The laugh I didn't know I needed... HOLY SHIT that's funny!!!!

3 points
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NickPerry's picture

May 15, 2021 at 01:31 pm

This is the best post in a LONG, LONG, time!

Thanks Mark!!

4 points
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Rebecca's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:20 pm

Lol, just peed little!

1 points
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jeremyjjbrown's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:48 pm

No way, your avatar isn't even a hot chick...

1 points
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blacke00's picture

May 15, 2021 at 07:39 am

I don't understand why Gutekunst would say publicly that Love "has a long way to go". Doesn't make sense to me. He (Gute) traded up for this guy. He had to know what he was getting in Love. If he didn't....what kinda talent evaluator is he? Or his scouts for that matter. Or was this draft pick made on a whim? Did Gutekunst consult Lafleur before making the Love pick and if not why? Shouldn't the HC be in on such an important decision? Could answer why he didn't give Rodgers a heads up?

Gute has made some good choices and some real stinkers! So if Love doesn't work out I really am not going to be surprised.

This again reinforces the old "law of unintended consequences". The Packers (Gute) (appears to) have made a blaring error on Love. This one error created a whole cascade of problems coming down to this current topic of whether Bortles will work in GB.

-1 points
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justjan's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:40 am

"The Packers have made a blaring error on Love." Based on 1 sentence that Gutekunst said?

5 points
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4thand10's picture

May 16, 2021 at 09:38 am

I at least wanna see Love in some preseason games. I know some people say preseason is pointless, but I believe you can tell if talent or panic is there or not.

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 16, 2021 at 10:08 am

You will no doubt get your wish, 4thand10!

I can’t wait to see Jordan Love in live action either, practice & preseason. I’m going to be heading up for practice, and I’ll give you my full report as best I can.

0 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 16, 2021 at 10:35 am

I would expect him to be rather Rodgers like in his first pre seasons. Not great. I equally expect a significant number of people will throw a fit when he is.

1 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:53 am

Potential is not necessarily instant. If you recall, it took Rodgers more than a season and some changes in habits to look like a genuine prospect. Gute has always said that Love was a player they wanted time to work with.

10 points
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PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:24 am

Most felt that way except Rod.

2 points
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4thand10's picture

May 16, 2021 at 09:42 am

But when Rodgers stepped into that Dallas game, you kinda knew there was massive ability there.

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Archie's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:06 am

And a long ways to go for what? To be a quality starter. to be a starter, to be a back-up, to suit up on game day?

Rodgers took Love as a stab in the back. So Rodgers stabbed the Packers in the back one year to the date. Does anybody think this story has a good ending? Packers FO obviously didn't understand their QB1 was a petulant diva and the lengths he would go for vengeance. They should have talked to Rodgers' family members before they drafted another QB1.

The smart thing to do is to simplify the offense right now and to tailor it to what Love does best i.e., assume the worst case with Rodgers.

If instead, they trade Love for less than what they gave up for him, just to get Rodgers to come back, my 60+ years of packer fandom will be over.

5 points
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LambeauPlain's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:52 am

Love is essentially a redshirt rookie. "A long ways to go" means the Team as not seen him play in a live NFL game yet. Would you want Gutey, in the midst of ongoing negotiations with Team Rodgers seeking a "win win" deal, to say "Jordan is real close...he's almost ready." Rodgers would have "loved" that "communication", eh?

Just curious....who are Gutey's "real stinkers" draft picks? You do realize every draft pick Gutey has made since 2018 are still on the team except for 4 players from day three picks in 2018? (Moore, Madison, Looney, Donnerson).

8 points
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dobber's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:55 am

"You do realize every draft pick Gutey has made since 2018 are still on the team except for 4 players from day three picks in 2018? (Moore, Madison, Looney, Donnerson)."

Let's not use the standard of a GM sticking to his guys as a sign of player quality.

8 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:10 am

I agree, though I hope this year sees some more not make it without an amazing leap. We could easily see a linebacker, WR and corner gone by season start.

That said, this doesn’t mean that overall, Gute hasn’t picked well. There are always going to be failures but this roster is a heck of a lot better than it was when he took the job.

5 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:13 am

Agree with you dobber. Roster cuts to 53 this year will have some higher profile names from Gutekunst's drafts past. I have zero doubt about that.

Nothing wrong with it. No GM has all of their draft picks work out. It just takes time to get your roster to that point where you see who is and who is not a player for your team. I'm amazed at the talent they've brought in with the UDFA signings alone. There are some great players there.

There is that tipping point where you show you belong, or you get shown the door. Competition to make this roster is fierce.

Oren Burks
Josh Jackson
Ty Summers
Ka'dar Hollman
Kabion Ento
Dexter Williams
Jake Hanson
EQ
Jace Sternberger
Yosh Nijman
Malik Taylor
Will Redmond
Patrick Taylor
Henry Black
De'Jon Harris
Zach Johnson
Parry Nickerson

I'm not looking to battle the merits of some of these players - and I like many of them. Just pointing out they are not in secure positions on this roster.

6 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 16, 2021 at 06:52 am

You know if the Packers cave to Rodgers and trade Love (by the way, I dont think there is a chance in hell they would ever trade Love) and Love turns out to be a star, Gutey and the Packers image and reputation would be forever stained. Packer fans would never forgive them.

Yes, Love has not played in a game, but do you think for a minute a team full of professional coaches and scouts after having him in practice and meetings for a full year dont know what they have in Love? I say hogwash! They completely do and have a very good idea of what he will become, as does Rodgers.

Love is likely to be a star in this league for the next 15 years!

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 16, 2021 at 08:30 am

You should get style points for using the word, “hogwash.”

People have differing opinions of Jordan Love because of the many differing opinions that have been proffered by NFL scouts. I get it. I’m with the team who traded up to take him.

“NFL scouts” as a term can have a wider range of credence or lack thereof, than opinions on Jordan Love. There are good scouts and bad scouts. There are scouts who do their homework, and those who don’t.

Look up AR & JL’s ONE BEST YEAR in college and compare. That will give you the truest reading amidst all the controversy.

0 points
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4thand10's picture

May 16, 2021 at 09:52 am

I’m not so sure, I’ve watched a ton of JL games on YouTube and I didn’t see anything that screams that. I saw play action , deep balls and some scrambling. But I did not see the poised pocket , command of a line, short and intermediate complex routes or dump offs to RBs and TEs. But I will reserve judgment until I see a few preseason games.

0 points
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leche's picture

May 17, 2021 at 04:32 pm

If the Packers end up trading Rodgers away and Rodgers takes that team to a Super Bowl and Love busts, then Gute is (quite rightly) getting fired and his reputation would also be forever stained.

The Love pick was one that took massive, MASSIVE balls. It's basically Gute's make or break decision as an NFL GM. And presently, it's not looking very good for him

1 points
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greengold's picture

May 17, 2021 at 04:47 pm

...true...?

Yeah, leche. There is no question that is correct. I'm sure that Gutekunst knows the brevity of what is taking place, and he has that decision, if AR refuses to play in GB again, to sit him, or get the most he can for him while his market value is sky high.

Just saw Dan Orlovsky say this morning that the price could go as high as 4 R1s...

Whatever. Seems there are not but those two options. Sit or Trade. I wish it were different, and I bet the team does too. It appears Aaron Rodgers is giving us those two options. We don't know with any certainty because he refuses to tell us all. O-K.... I really think this is where our Packers find themselves.

Maybe the Love pick actually works out. Maybe better than anyone could have imagined... We will see.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:20 am

I'm sure Thompson would have said the same about Rod after his first year.

2 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:23 am

I think it was nothing more than a negotiating tactic, propping up the fact that the Packers DO NOT have to make a trade.

6 points
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Oppy's picture

May 15, 2021 at 12:37 pm

1) maybe the truth? Not necessarily an indictment of Love's talent; he's essentially a rookie QB "plus" because he didn't have a training camp due to Covid.

2) Maybe to placate / signal to Rodgers "you're still our guy for the immediate future"?

3) Maybe if the goal is to still try to attain maximum trade value for Aaron Rodgers, they are downplaying Love in order to signal to other teams that Aaron Rodgers is highly valuable to the Packers and will require premium compensation for the Packers to let him go.

I am personally of the opinion that the Packers still view Jordan Love as the long-term future of the Packers at this point. I would be shocked if ANY team had any indications of changing their heart on a young QB who hasn't even had a training camp yet. I don't think anyone inside 1225 views Jordan Love as being a "blaring error" in terms of their long-term projection of his talent. It may not work out (you don't know till you know), but the idea that Gute's statement about Love having a long way to go before being ready means they believe they made a massive mistake? I don't think so.

2 points
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FLPackfan's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:23 am

The pick was always about the future without Rodgers, and that doesn't mean the immediate future. The kid has the tools, but also needs them to be sharpened and fine tuned while he learns the scheme.

1 points
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Roadrunner23's picture

May 15, 2021 at 07:42 am

The Packers got caught with their pants down and are trying to patch it up as best they can.

1st: Their original plan was to make one last run at a Super Bowl with Rodgers under center and then trade him the following off season.
Oops! Pants down on that plan, Rodgers was having none of that!

2nd: The Packers thought they could save a couple of bucks by jettisoning Boyle and promoting Love so he could take over the following year when Rodgers was traded.
Oops! Pants down again, now with Rodgers holding out there is no one that knows the playbook well enough to mentor the young QB while Rodgers holds out and remains silent on his future.

The Packers clearly messed this thing up and now are trying to patch over it by signing Bortles, but they are looking more and more like idiots and are being exposed for the bungling, mismanaged organization that they have become since Murphy took over.

Packers management, fix this!!

-10 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:54 am

Rodgers pulled their pants down? Unseemly analogy perhaps but in essence he is trying just that.

3 points
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murf7777's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:02 am

“but they are looking more and more like idiots and are being exposed for the bungling, mismanaged organization that they have become since Murphy took over.“

A bit harsh I’d say. Murphy’s not perfect, nobody is, and I agree they didn’t handle the Love situation or proper communication with Rodgers over the past few years. That said, in the end, people are rated on results and under Murphy’s rein, whom was in football his whole life, many as an executive of football teams, and has made many very good decisions the Packers record is 145-77-2. I would argue that is an awesome career.

11 points
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Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:03 am

Nostradamus I agree. From a management point of view the FO doesn't appear to think things through very thoroughly. Scenario planning could go a long way to preventing these situations but that would require actual thinking and working. Apparently the Packers still prefer the Quija Board. Thanks, Since '61

-6 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

May 15, 2021 at 03:36 pm

Remember the Legacy of this front office collection of tire-kickers dating back to passing over Montana three times with Bart in the GM chair and blowing Red Cochran's mind when they sided with the low-life,Dan Devine.

1 points
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Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:25 pm

They were a mess from the end of the Lombardi era until Bob Harlan took over and brought in Ron Wolf. Then between Wolf and TT it wasn’t very good again.

Then Murphy allowed football to become a side show while he built Titletown. Then he returned to form the current triumvirate to minimize his accountability whenever his 2 fellow triumvirs either mess up the salary cap or the team or both as in the current scenario.

It’s beginning to look like Murphy spoke too soon when he proclaimed ‘“we’re not idiots.” Thanks, Since ‘61

-3 points
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PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:36 am

Rod still has a 17 mill cap hit in 2022 if traded. So unless Love shows great development , I don't see him starting until 2023. I think Gute had Thompson in mind when he took Love. Give Lafleur a young raw QB that he can bring along without the pressure of time with a HOF as an example. It worked great once why not again.

10 points
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Oppy's picture

May 15, 2021 at 12:42 pm

17 million cap hit in 2022 if traded.

39 million cap number in 2022 if retained.

I don't understand the cap (that's why I pay close attention to guys like TGR- they understand the money) but as a financial "lay person", that looks like $22 million in cap space CREATED if the Packers find a trade partner to move Rodgers in 2022.

Is that how it works? I don't know.

0 points
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PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:28 pm

That's because 2022 is not fully guaranteed.

1 points
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LeotisHarris's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:31 pm

Hell, Pete, we're all day-to-day.

3 points
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PeteK's picture

May 16, 2021 at 09:19 am

I think I owe a few years. LOL

2 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:58 am

nostradanus, that is one way to look at it. No doubt. You might be right.

Another, is that Aaron Rodgers waylaid the plans that they were making for another SB run with him at QB1 by nuking the FO on Draft Day 1.

Another is that Aaron Rodgers killed their plans during 2 months of negotiations, and that line was already drawn before the draft, by AR, saying he will not return, no matter what the Packers offered.

Boyle was not going to be their QB1, they didn't want him being QB2 to AR, and they were likely keeping their options open in case they could get AR to come around. Let's face it, Boyle got paid more than GB was likely willing to pay if AR decided to return. It is likely AR did this after Boyle signed with DET.

I DON'T THINK THERE IS ANY CHANCE they let Boyle sign with DET if they knew AR was adamant he would not return.

Caught with their pants down? OK. Maybe AR's hard line stance that he will not return to play again for the Packers was not something they actually considered possible.

You can characterize it like that and you're likely not wrong - but I hope you are...!!! ;-)))

-----

I question SO MUCH in this fucking BS DRAMA. How much of a malcontent was AR being in GB over the past two seasons? THAT IS A FAIR QUESTION. Maybe the Packers held firm on not allowing more team controls that AR might have wanted? Or money? Or years? Maybe AR decided to torch the relationship when the Packers told him "NO!"

Is THAT being caught with your pants down? I don't know about that. Maybe they thought "Fuck it! We'll go with Jordan as our starter! WE WILL HELP YOU FIND ANOTHER TEAM TO PLAY FOR!"

You have to admit these scenarios are as possible to be true as either of those you offered here. We will likely know more in about 3 weeks or less. All we fans are left to do is guess. Yours is a good guess in my eyes. If you are right, we may have bigger problems than I'm willing to admit.

I tend to think AR blew up our future with him as our QB1 for another title shot, the Packers agreed with DEN (in principle) to trade his ass before the draft, then AR tossed the Draft Day 1 grenade into our War Room out of spite. We will find out.

All I know is despite differing opinions, WE ARE ALL PACKER FANS, wanting the same thing, to bring home THE LOMBARDI TROPHY.

4 points
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Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:27 am

greengold, the only flaw in your reasoning is that Schefter, by his own admission, threw the grenade into the war room on draft day, not AR. Schefter said he did it based on "accumulated information". He or anyone else has yet to provide any credible source(s) for his accumulated information. He also has not accounted for when these alleged statements were actually made.

To me the question remains, where would we be if Schefter never makes his report on draft day.

The other reason I find it hard to believe is that it just isn't like Aaron to make statements while he is still in the negotiating process. He has always been very tight lipped about his personal matters. Another is that none of his teammates, Adams, Bak, Kuhn, Linsley who have been in touch with him have corroborated Schefter's claim.

Now is it possible that Rodgers said it or something like it? Yes, of course it is. it could have been a positioning tool which he used for the negotiations but it still has not been verified. The other side is the Denver media. They have not been able to confirm anything either. We have 3 media venues, at least, following this story extremely closely, Green Bay, Denver, and the National Sports media and all anyone has come up with so far is rumors and heresay. Nothing definite from anyone.

"It is known that up to 3 people can keep a secret, provided two of them are dead." Benjamin Franklin
We know that there are many more than 3 people maintaining this secret at this point. So my conclusion is that anything can happen and that everything the media has provided to us so far is just hype and speculation.
Thanks, Since '61

2 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:40 pm

Schefter’s comments to Dan Patrick were a total walk back.

He had multiple opportunities over draft weekend to declare the claims false, but Aaron Rodgers did not. I call bullshit on that all day.

Btw, that’s JMTC. I don’t know crap about this, but I have hunches. My gut tells me after watching that segment Schefter was in full walk-back. He was specific team and league sources said Thursday... without looking it up again.

Did ESPN force a false statement by Schefter for a ratings boost? Seems unlikely as the Draft is super high ratings regardless. This has AR tweeker written all over it. Next day he tells Tirico in a written statement he wishes those news reports had not come out.

Seems like a lot of BS.

Schefter will do anything AR wants if he wants any more exclusives.

1 points
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Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 05:32 pm

Do you think anyone would believe Rodgers if he did declare they were false reports? It would just become a he said/he said and just add to the circus like atmosphere. It’s a lose/lose for Rodgers and he knows it.

Better to comment on the outcome than deal with every sensationalized that comes out daily. Thanks, Since ‘61

2 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:23 pm

True, Since’61! Very true.

If he cared, he’d say something himself instead of this garbage. His career long fans deserve better than they are getting.

2 points
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murf7777's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:43 pm

Shefter has come out Thursday and stated it was multiple sources on Wilde and Tauch. I believe you were talking about his interview with Dan Patrick where he said not any one source. I listened to the Dan Patrick interview and was taken back by lack of proper journalism, but now I understand he had his sources and it wasn’t conjecture. A lot of things playing out on this and until Rodgers speaks we have no idea what is really going on behind closed doors.

1 points
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jannes bjornson's picture

May 15, 2021 at 03:22 pm

Never send in a set of drift car hobbyists to run in the Indy Racing Series.

4 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:03 am

Nost,
Agree with most of your posts but completely disagree the Packers dropped the ball, or got caught with their pants down.

Rodgers who recently signed one of the best player contracts in NFL history in conjunction with his agent concocted this plan to leverage his MVP season against the Packers have nothing to do with the Packers being caught with their pants down. This is all about a petulant spoiled and selfish Rodgers. In my view it is a desperate attempt by Rodgers as he sees the writing on the wall. Love's talent is very apparent to a QB savvy Rodgers and he knows his time is rapidly coming to an end in GB.

0 points
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egbertsouse's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:00 am

I’ve been reading writers on a number of sites trying to spin this Bortles thing in a positive light. I’m not buying it. Either they think Rodgers is gone or Love is so bad he is still not backup quality. Or Gute decided that, in an attempt to mollify Rodgers, he would bring in a stiff so awful that no one could see him as a threat to Rodgers job. All these are bad alternatives.

-5 points
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Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:00 am

It would be negligent not to have some veteran depth with Rodgers refusing to commit. Get what you can afford when you can, and Bortles is the best of that bunch and the most experienced. No guarantee he’s around in July/August.

He also provides an experienced QB to help run camp/OTAs. Love didn’t get those last year and so this will be his first time too. Rodgers is usually on a light workload even if he is here.

12 points
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greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:14 am

1. Rodgers is gone.
2. Love isn't bad. He's really good.
3. We needed a backup QB or two behind Love, and Bortles is a good fit with knowledge of the system.

4 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:04 am

Agreed GG on all accounts!

0 points
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lucky953's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:10 am

No preseason last year, no tape for GMs to see, no reasonable trade offers for J Love

5 points
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13TimeChamps's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:16 am

Particularly after his GM, the guy who drafted him, says "he has a long ways to go".

I'm not saying I think Gute has plans to trade Love, in fact I highly doubt it. But still a strange comment with everything going on.

6 points
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KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:10 am

A team chock full of professional coaches and scouts who watched endless games of Love for several years prior to drafting him, and then having him in GB for another full year have a damn good idea of what they have in Love. If they dont they should be immediately fired!

Everyone who continues this narrative the Packers do not know what they have in Love is full of baloney! They absolutely do know and that is why they let Boyle go. Love's potential and talent is enormous. I say trade Rodger's June 1st and let's move onwards into the Love era!

1 points
1
0
4thand10's picture

May 16, 2021 at 10:11 am

Until there is live action against different players and coaches.....no, I don’t think they know what exactly they have until some live preseason reps

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

May 16, 2021 at 10:40 am

It took a couple of years to gain the belief in Rodgers. Sure Love could light up pre-season, but that’s not the most likely outcome by any means, meaning the probability is that we will have no clear picture.

0 points
0
0
Irish_Cheesehead's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:15 am

Gute got exactly what he thought he was getting with Love - a project with a lot of upside that would take time to develop. That’s why he’s no immediate threat to QB12. His time is, and always has been, down the road. The Packers have nothing to fix and no one to trade. Bortles isn’t our starter. Any starter other than Rodgers comes over in a trade if A-Rod forces one. In that case, I’ll dream of a trade with Seattle for Wilson (although I don’t see that ever happening).

11 points
13
2
Leatherhead's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:43 am

Why is Love a project when the QB taken after him is already a starter? Oh, that’s right, the Packer front office doesn’t know what they’re doing. 28-8 is an accident.

Sheeesh.

Do you remember when Favre was pulling his bullshit in 2008? And we drafted two QBs to let him know we were preparing to move on? Is the light bulb on yet?

Rodgers is done playing for the Packers. Accept.

-3 points
9
12
Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:06 am

Love is a project because they want to work on him. They have said that from the start. Among other things, draft is a balance of ceiling and readiness. The fact that one player starts before another doesn’t mean that the early starter has s better career, as Rodgers illustrates.

I’m not saying Rodgers isn’t done, but that’s not particularly relevant to Love’s potential or upside. I really don’t think Rodgers’ actions have much to do with Love (unless he thinks Love is a lot better than we know). It’s about wanting to control the remainder of his career and more money.

3 points
3
0
Archie's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:15 am

".....It’s about wanting to control the remainder of his career and more money...."

When Rodgers has won 6 or 7 Super Bowls and his contract is completed, he will deserve the same opportunities as TB12. Until then, just shut up and play. They don't come more passive-aggressive than AR12.

5 points
8
3
Packerpasty's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:42 am

"just shut up and play"....yup, that will work with todays top athletes...hahaha...its not 1965

2 points
4
2
greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:19 am

"Bases loaded. Here's the pitch... LEATHERHEAD with a monster shot! Get up! Get up! Get OUTTA HERE!!! LEATHERHEAD WITH THE GRAND SLAM GAME WINNER!!!!"

0 points
3
3
Leatherhead's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:28 pm

I’m glad you liked it, but I’m gonna take a break for a while. It’s just too depressing to see so many people in Denial. I’ll be back after this is over in a couple of weeks.

1 points
1
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greengold's picture

May 16, 2021 at 02:30 am

Yeah, good luck with that. I tried. Cracked. Was only going to comment on non AR/JL topics, but every single one turns back to it.

You have my full support. ;-)))

0 points
0
0
Coldworld's picture

May 16, 2021 at 08:41 am

This was the case in the Favre / Rodgers overlap. It became almost impossible to discuss because a large portion of the comments were between three wise monkeys on both sides.

It would be great to talk about players, schemes, coaching, but that’s going to get hijacked at this time of year and when an idol’s future is in question. By this point we all know the positions of most regular contributors, but it will continue until resolved one way or the other. That may not be imminent. As time drags on, it looks like one side wants this to continue.

1 points
1
0
jannes bjornson's picture

May 15, 2021 at 03:31 pm

If they knew what they were doing, then they should have moved Rodgers last year and went with the Newbie. It's just the "system" right?

1 points
2
1
greengold's picture

May 16, 2021 at 02:36 am

Theoretically, the system was to pay your starting QB, and draft his successor, giving him a couple of years to develop.

Aaron Rodgers was paid the richest contract in NFL history. We drafted his possible successor. He didn’t like that. BFD. He was a year older than Favre was when he himself was drafted. It was the prudent thing for any GM to do under the circumstances. Aaron knows this FIRST HAND, yet, didn’t like that. TFB.

We have more experience with this than any team in the NFL, now. SF successfully made the transition from Montana to Young. We successfully transitioned from Favre to Rodgers, and are now attempting same with Rodgers to Love. Aaron Rodgers petulance hasn’t helped. We paid him expecting more.

He is trying to blow up any sense of system we had, or that we have been trying to establish. He doesn’t want to be here? FINE, You are an opponent now, Aaron. WE WILL TRADE YOU! GO PACK!

I think Jordan Love & Matt LaFleur, along with Brian Gutekunst will save the day on this one. I think Jordan Love, with the right coaching & guidance can win the Super Bowl this year with the Packers.

Jordan Love still wound up getting one year, as challenging as it was, practicing side by side with AR, in the QB room, on the sidelines. All reports were AR was not a dick to him, but courteous & helpful within reason.

We can be grateful for that, at least. With a better attitude, Aaron Rodgers could well have walked out of here with a couple more SB wins. He apparently plans to win them elsewhere, by other means.

Trade him and start Love.

Go Pack Go!

-1 points
1
2
croatpackfan's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:14 am

Aaaaah.

Do not take one sentence from anyone's mouth to make conclusions.

1. If JL is so incompetent, why AR made that s*itties "announcements"? Why if he is not endangered by his opinion? I'm sure that he saw JL in practice and it may be he noticed something in JL that he consider him as threat.

What would be another reason for all those mind fames? Aaron Rodgers has 3 more years on contract, plenty of time to force extention. If JL is so bad or if he is bust as many now fear, why this season?

Because he is MVP? OK. So, you claim Aaron Rodgerd basicalky believe he can not repeat his best season any more? As I understand if Aaron repeat last season and additionally win SB, he will have much higher leverage if that happens.

-3 points
2
5
Packerpasty's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:44 am

no its because he believed and probably rightly so, that until he had that MVP season he was going to be traded...so now trade him Gutes your the brains of the outfit.

0 points
3
3
Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:13 am

I doubt that and if anything the comments on Love back that up.

2 points
2
0
Demon's picture

May 15, 2021 at 07:19 pm

.

0 points
0
0
murf7777's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:23 am

I know every team wants to get the QB starting early to maximize salary cap and build a team around them. I think that is short term thinking as the salary cap will catch up in a few years and you severely
risked throwing a QB into the fire to soon in their career thus possibly destroying the young QB confidence. I get it, we live in a “want it now” world.

What’s best for the organization long term? I think the Packers are wise to take their time with Love as they did with Rodgers. If you end up with a highly successful QB for two decades, nobody is going to care that you sat him for 2-3 years. Rodgers didn’t look good early in his career during pre-season games and love may not as well. It’s all in a development process and the Packers get it unlike many unsuccessful teams in the NFL.

7 points
8
1
Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:24 am

I think Bortles was signed as insurance against a Rodgers holdout and/or Love not being ready to start if Rodgers is traded. If Rodgers stays with the Packers then Bortles provides a veteran backup wile Love is still in a developmental mode.

The signing of Bortles also suggests that either a trade for Rodgers has not been agreed upon or that it does not include a QB (Bridgewater) as part of the deal.
If a deal for Rodgers is done and waiting for June 1 why would you sign Bortles if a QB coming to GB was included?

This move also supports the plan that the Packers intend to move on from Rodgers after 2021 and Bortles will mentor Love through the 2021 season. Just let it play out. We'll have answers in June (I think). Thanks, Since '61

4 points
5
1
Packerpasty's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:45 am

Bortles is an abysmal QB, an INT waiting to happen. Is he the best that was avail to the Packers? Holy wah..things are going downhill fast in Titletown.

-6 points
1
7
Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:57 am

The Packers OC Hackett was Bortles QB coach in Jacksonville. I don't know if Bortles is the best available out there but he is probably the best a one year deal to be able to come in and work with Hackett and provide some experience and support to Love in the QB room and during pre-game preparation if Rodgers is traded or retires.

If Rodgers remains with the Packers Bortles is an experienced backup who could and probably would beat out Love for the #2 spot based on his experience and in having worked with Hackett previously.

Bottom line is we won't know what the thinking is for Bortles until Rodgers' situation is settled. Thanks, Since '61

5 points
5
0
PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:57 am

If Rod is back Love must be the the main backup and Bortles cut. The next step in Love's development is practice reps with the first team and live playing experience.

1 points
1
0
greengold's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:30 am

It makes perfect sense if the Packers want to go with 3 QBs, and AR is out of the picture. I would imagine it would be helpful having 2 veteran backup QBs in your QB Room to bounce ideas off of daily as you learn the ropes.

Maybe DEN traded for Bridgewater to backup Rodgers, and Drew Lock is coming our way... Who knows? There are all kinds of scenarios that could play out in all of this.

Maybe the AR trade is with the Raiders?

1 points
3
2
dobber's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:59 am

"Cory's Corner: Don't Worry About Blake Bortles"

Done.

10 points
10
0
Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:17 am

If you won’t take the onset of bortles seriously then we will never gain herd immunity.

8 points
8
0
dobber's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:20 am

What if I own a Blake Bortles mask?

5 points
5
0
jeremyjjbrown's picture

May 15, 2021 at 06:57 pm

I've been fully vaccinated against Bortles.

6 points
6
0
Coldworld's picture

May 16, 2021 at 08:46 am

One of the symptoms of the onset of bortles is an increasing tendency to see things that are not there and miss those as plain as a pikestaff in front of one’s face. How would I be certain?

2 points
2
0
TarynsEyes's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:13 am

What's to worry about or panic. if Rodgers isn't the starting QB then the only worse-off scenario is the guarantee of the esteemed Division Title is severely lessened, which in turn near guarantees either a playoff spot miss or a one-and-done exit. If Rodgers is the starting QB from game one, then your previous hopes and expected lesser title acquirement is near-guaranteed but looks still to come up short of the ultimate goal which is the only goal of worth.

No Rodgers= no shot.
With Rodgers= a shot with a miss at the end.

What else is new?

-4 points
3
7
Coldworld's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:18 am

A lot less cap for 5 years?

4 points
4
0
PeteK's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:09 am

Last thing we need right now are tidings from Hades. Optimistic rebuttal: with an infusion of some drafted youth, Packers reach and win another SB with Rod under center.

0 points
1
1
TarynsEyes's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:36 am

With so many seasons of the same rhetoric from the optimist, it's about time for the optimist to accept that actually doing it is now the mandate, because year after year of buying into the same proves it isn't working for you, but for the team exactly as it has hoped for, a continuous acceptance of failing to achieve the SB with misguided fans buying into the do enough to win games, but not enough to win THE GAME, or get in it.

1 points
2
1
HankScorpio's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:47 pm

"near guarantees either a playoff spot miss or a one-and-done exit."

Have you saved this a hotkey? I swear I see this every offseason from you for the last 3 years.

4 points
5
1
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:16 am

LOL!

0 points
0
0
ricky's picture

May 15, 2021 at 10:21 am

Rodgers sat behind Favre for three years, and we're getting antsy because Love hasn't been pushing to be a starter after one year? Especially a year that was affected by Covid restrictions. And, the team already had a decent (maybe; the guy never played any meaningful snaps, but somehow we know he'd be great) backup in Boyle who had three years in the system, learning behind Rodgers. Sometimes some patience is required.

10 points
10
0
Crankbait's picture

May 16, 2021 at 07:54 am

Last season was a fluke season. The China virus affect was huge on the outcome in many ways that are just not being discussed and analyzed here and elsewhere in the sporting world. Personally I have tossed last season into the trash heap. Doesn't count.
Definitely looking forward to this upcoming season much much more than last year unless the NFL continues to promote their BLM bullshit and/or the government rekindle's
their assault on the middle class.
I do like the prospect of Matt LeFlour getting a chance to run his own team this upcoming season with Rodgers gone... this will force him and the Packers brass to be more accountable.

-2 points
0
2
Roadrunner23's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:06 am

Here is a fair question to ask all of my Packers brethren out there.

Are you sick and tired of watching the front office grovel, whine, beg and plead for Aaron Rodgers to change his mind.
Flying out to California or wherever to appease and crawl at the feet of the MVP?

Are you sick and tired of our head coach looking like a wimp in front of the national media as he cries and begs Aaron Rodgers to return?

Did management gamble and mess this up? YES

Is it time to stand up and say enough?! YES

Aaron Rodgers if he comes back or not has probably doomed the season anyway by putting question marks in many of the veterans minds whether Green Bay is a place they want to play.
June 1st is the time for management to have some damn balls, to stand firm and cut out the cancer, trade the diva for a shipload of picks and move boldly ahead with Love.

Packers management has F’d this thing up, now they should F’ING own it already move ahead, not grovel at the feet of a diva bitch.

How many of you say yes?!

-7 points
5
12
Since'61's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:42 am

I've been posting that management F'ed this up since Day 1 and I've also been posting that they cannot allow this to continue into TC. One way or another they need to resolve this situation in June, which to be fair, I think that they will.

SO I say Yes, emphatically YES!!!

As for MLF, of course he is desperate for Rodgers to return. MLF's job is to win games. He knows that if Rodgers leaves he is probably facing sub-500 seasons for the foreseeable future and in that case he'll be looking for an OC position within the next 24-36 months. MLF like many players came to Green Bay to be the HC of a team with an HOF QB, now that opportunity is disappearing through no fault of his own. Also, he knows better than anyone how far Love needs to go in his development to become an NFL starting QB.

MLF sees his dream of being an SB winning HC slip, sliding away, slip sliding away. He's a bright guy and he knows how bad this can get. Thanks, Since '61

-1 points
3
4
TarynsEyes's picture

May 15, 2021 at 11:59 am

If Rodgers is traded so be it. Get what you can, but when a team is forced to trade a player, even Rodgers, the cost drops because the number of teams able or willing to participate that needs a QB and whether that team can become a legit contender day one and not 3-5 years after the deal.

If the FO gives in and extends Rodgers, they better understand they just gave him more dictatorial power anytime he feels they didn't consult him for approval, not simple informing, especially if Gute is let go.

A large enough financial adjustment could possibly create a locker room cancer as others are denied what THEY believe to be their value, and assuring better cannot be obtained, though that hasn't been an issue for the FO to not get better even when they were financially able to.

Regretfully, I don't see how this team endures all that may be coming with or without Rodgers leading the way until he nosedives into another big game loss.

1 points
3
2
LeotisHarris's picture

May 15, 2021 at 08:45 pm

Man, nostradanus, I have to say ElizabethGlowacki has impeccable comedic timing dropping her post on the heels of your Braveheart-like closing.

3 points
3
0
Coldworld's picture

May 16, 2021 at 10:49 am

I agree that he has possibly doomed the season by ensuring further moves can’t be made due to cap while good options were available and may further do so by forcing cuts elsewhere to get us under the wire.

I differ in the view that the FO has done much wrong that is really material. They will do if they mortgage the farm for 5 years to get him back at all costs and set up cap hell after he is gone in the process.

0 points
0
0
Packers0808's picture

May 15, 2021 at 01:04 pm

What Rodgers should do is go home, open his desk and reread the letters Bart Starr wrote him over the years! Maybe Rodgers could become a little more humble like Mr Starr was!

11 points
11
0
HankScorpio's picture

May 15, 2021 at 04:54 pm

I don't think Blake Bortles and Aaron Rodgers will be on the same regular season roster in 2021. I think the Packers QB lineup is most likely to be: Rodgers, Love, Benkert (assuming he as PS eligibility) or Love, Bortles, Benkert. I get that players develop at different rates but they might as well throw in the towel on Love now if they signed Blake Bortles to slot in ahead of him on the depth chart.

I don't put a whole lot of weight behind words at a presser when Gute is trying to repair a rift with the diva QB as a sure-fire indicator that Love is going to spend another year not dressing on gameday. They need to find out if Love is the guy they thought he was. They won't find out by burying him. He needs as many reps as possible in practice and on gameday. It makes perfect sense to play Rodgers ahead of Love. It makes zero sense to play Bortles ahead of Love.

4 points
5
1
packer132's picture

May 15, 2021 at 09:56 pm

We will know in two weeks. If Rodgers does not sign and doesn't want to play for Green Bay, then its mostly Love this summer. If he doesn't show enough, then it is Bortles to start over Love and Benkert on practice squad. If Love can't start, then he won't have any trade value either. My hope is for Rodgers, Love, Bortles this year.

1 points
1
0