Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers met with the assembled media at his locker for roughly 20 minutes after practice on Monday.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most important things Rodgers said:
– Rodgers said the offensive line didn’t protect very well at times during Monday’s practice. A few times, he had to throw the ball away to avoid a sure sack.
– On playing in the preseason finale: “Whatever Matt wants us to do, we’ll do.”
– Rodgers reiterated something he’s said many times: He wants to have reasonable and realistic expectations for the young receivers while still holding them to a high standard already set in the room.
– He feels very good about the veterans at receiver. Randall Cobb had “one of his better practices” on Monday. Sammy Watkins had terrific practices against the Saints. Allen Lazard has been “very consistent.”
– On Christian Watson playing catchup: “Pretty good yesterday, pretty good day…different skill set. Big body who can run.” Said he needs to get better tracking the ball down the field. Mental improvement has been notable.
– Rodgers said he gave Watson a quick check in the huddle, and the rookie executed it perfectly during Monday’s practice.
– Standard is higher for Romeo Doubs, who is having a standout training camp and will “be expected to play.”
– Rodgers said Danny Etling reminds him of former Packers backup quarterback Scott Tolzien. Called him a “gym rat” and “obviously talented athletically.” Praised the work ethic and curiosity. “I’ve really enjoyed having him in the room.”
– On getting back 69 and 74: The pre-practice jog-through, I stepped into the huddle the other day, it was Big Giraffe at left, Elgton over at right, Big Dog was in there, Sammy and Cobb and Allen and Jonesy…and I was like, this feels like a pretty good offense right here.”
– Specifically praised Jake Hanson’s development. “The steps he’s made to put himself in the conversation to be a starter in the NFL, it’s outstanding. He’s consistently gotten better.” Said he’s really proud of the “big jump” Hanson has made.
– On Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon: “Both those guys in space can be really productive for us.”
– Rodgers wants to see the rookies make “full speed” mistakes now because he’s certain they want make the mistakes again during the regular season. Wants everyone to be better at the “simple stuff.” No mistakes on “Day 1” stuff.
– He said Sammy Watkins has made a “mental” jump during the third week of training camp. The veteran is playing faster and making faster decisions.
– Still need improvement on the scramble drill from the new receivers. There are “simple scramble rules,” but it’s also something instinctual. The veterans have done well. “It’s a feel thing.” Wants more consistency in these situations.
– Not ready to compare the 2022 defense to past great defenses – like 2010 and 2014 – in Green Bay. “I don’t want to crown anybody before the regular season, but the expectations are definitely high.”
– Rodgers compared Rasul Douglas to Charles Woodson…again. Mentioned “ball-hawking ability, coverage skills, understanding of concepts, and his trash-talking” as comparable attributes. “I love 29. He’s a hell of a player.”