Clayton's Observations

[ND72]

Re: Clayton's Observations

3. Mr. Rodgers' neighborhood
This might not mean much, but word around Packers camp is Aaron Rodgers is ready to be a starting NFL quarterback. That doesn't mean much in Green Bay because Favre is the starting quarterback and he doesn't miss games. Rodgers looks comfortable behind center in practices, but that isn't new. He's looked that way in practices for the past three years. The key is managing the offense in game situations, and that's not happening while Favre is around. Rodgers has to make up the difference in the meeting room and on the scout teams. According to the coaches, Rodgers made the turn this offseason. He seems to be grasping the offense and executing it efficiently. He doesn't have the greatest arm strength, but he can make all of the throws. Should Favre retire after this season, McCarthy and general manager Ted Thompson are convinced Rodgers could take over in 2008.

I know many aren't big on Rodgers...I have been one that said I didn't care because Favre is our QB, so I'm not judging Rodgers. But everything I've seen of him, a couple OTA's and a Training Camp practice, says he's ready. Seriously. Everything I saw of him at practice had starter written all over him. My worry is, if he has any potential at all to improve and be a star player, is even time has a window on it. If you wait too long, it could be just as bad as starting a player right away that isn't ready.