Packers: Does Aaron Rodgers deserve LeBron James treatment?

When Aaron Rodgers comments, his words tend to calm down the Green Bay Packers faithful.

Comments like “R-E-L-A-X” or “I feel like we can run the table”, gave the team and the fans confidence, that a struggling Packers team would bounce back.

Well, during this offseason, the tide has changed. Every time Rodgers has spoken publicly this offseason, it’s caused trepidation, with what feels like passive-aggressive messages directed towards the front office in Green Bay.

The first comment came during Super Bowl week when he appeared on the “Golic and Wingo” show. During the interview, Rodgers said: “There’s a close connection between a quarterback and his quarterback coach and that was an interesting decision.”

The release of Jordy Nelson caused some activity from Rodgers on social media. General manager Brian Gutekunst didn’t tell Rodgers about the move until after Nelson was already off the roster. Afterwards, Rodgers “liked” a tweet from NFL Network’s Rich Eisen downplaying the signing of Jimmy Graham in favor of Nelson.

Here is Eisen’s tweet:

As recently as last week, Rodgers joined a radio station and had more worrisome words to say. Rodgers, in the interview, said “I think it’s pretty clear that players play, coaches coach and personnel people make their decisions, that’s the way they want it.”

Rodgers made light of a report Tuesday that said he’s frustrated that Green Bay doesn’t consult him on personnel decisions. He sarcastically responded to a Packers tweet Tuesday saying the team needed a more engaging heading.

Rodgers has alluded to the fact that he would like some input on roster moves. As the best player on the roster, this makes sense. But, this type of superstar treatment is usually found in the NBA not the NFL.

Liken to LeBron James, a four-time MVP and three-time champion in the NBA. James is often referenced as the general manager and coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers, although he is only a player. Influencing the Cavaliers signing of LeBron’s longtime friend Dwayne Wade last offseason. Furthermore, the threat of James leaving the team via this upcoming free agency led them to make four trades before the trade deadline to upgrade their roster.

James’ imprint is felt on the court, the coaching staff, and in the front office. Rodgers could want a similar imprint on a Packers team he has carried for the past 10 years.

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He isn’t outright saying it now, but Rodgers’ involvement on who ends up on the Packers’ 53-man roster is clearly important to him.