While the Green Bay Packers failed to win the NFC Championship and earn a spot in Super Bowl LIV, quarterback Aaron Rodgers continued to show his leadership on the field. Furthermore, his stats actually show success for the veteran quarterback despite operating under a new offensive scheme under head coach Matt LaFleur.
He ranked 11th in the league with 4,002 passing yards and added another 569 in two postseason games. It’s the eighth time in his career he’s thrown for 4,000 or more yards in a season and the third time in the last four seasons. Rodgers threw for 200+ yards in 13 of 16 games for the Packers, including two games with 300 and 400 or more yards, respectively.
In regular season play, he ranks 11th in passing yards and tied for eighth with 26 passing touchdowns among the league’s quarterbacks. Impressively, his 26 passing touchdowns are three more than New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
He only threw four interceptions during the 2019 regular season, ranking second-lowest since taking over as the Packers’ starting quarterback in 2008. Rodgers only fumbled three times as well. While many NFL quarterbacks make poor decisions while under pressure or being sacked, Rodgers’ three fumbles kept many drives alive despite being taken down 36 times behind the line of scrimmage.
Rodgers’ statistics are especially impressive given that Green Bay faced injuries to a key offensive weapon. Wide receiver Davante Adams missed four games in October and finished the regular season with team-high 997 receiving yards. Both players, and Green Bay, would have benefited statistically if Adams played in those games.
There were many questions facing Rodgers and the Packers heading into the season. There should be no question that Rodgers showed there was no drama or issue adjusting to the new system. Rodgers showed he’s a consummate professional, helping the team earn a first-round bye after maybe people wondered if they’d even make the postseason leading up to the season.
It’s clear the Packers are still the kings of the NFC North. Rodgers impressed on the field this season and watch out next season, especially if Jimmy Graham doesn’t retire. Luckily for Packers fans, it currently appears that Graham will play out the final year of his three-year deal.
All in all, it was a successful year for Rodgers and company despite not reaching Super Bowl LIV in Miami. Based on Rodgers’ play this season and a full offseason to further develop within LaFleur’s offensive system, the 2020 season should be worth the wait for Packers fans.
