Aaron Rodgers might consider retirement as an option to force his way out of Green Bay. Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

Aaron Rodgers confirms rift with Packers in off-camera discussion with Mike Tirico

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 5/1/21

Reports surfaced on Saturday stating that Aaron Rodgers remains adamant about not returning to the Green Bay Packers unless general manager Brian Gutekunst is fired.

Rodgers has not commented publicly on his feelings toward the franchise, but confirmed the rift between Packers management and himself in an off-camera interview with NBC's Mike Tirico at the Kentucky Derby, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Rodgers also expressed disappointment that news of his divide with the Packers was made public, adding that "he loves Green Bay, loves the fans, loves the franchise."

The full quote from NBC’s ⁦@miketirico⁩ after a conversation with still-#Packers QB Aaron Rodgers off camera at the Kentucky Derby. pic.twitter.com/WT5CbE9hWj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 1, 2021

Rodgers' unhappiness with the Packers began when Gutekunst opted to trade up for Jordan Love in last year's draft. The veteran signal-caller believed the pick meant Gutekunst planned to move on from him after the 2020 season.

Packers president Mark Murphy acknowledged the situation on Saturday, saying, "This is an issue that we have been working on for several months."

The Packers don't want to trade Rodgers, but if the veteran quarterback doesn't get what he wants, he could force his way out of Green Bay by skipping offseason workouts, training camp and even potentially retiring.

More must-reads: