I have to agree with the
@Quientus,
@gbgary and
@Un4GivN . The fact that Rodgers is leading now, seemingly more motivated and dedicated then ever this season, doesn't prove anything. First of all, since there is mounting pressure on Rodgers (not only by Packer fans but now also more by the media) continuing to sulk would only confirm these sentiments spoken out by critical fans such as myself. Plus, there is nothing left to sulk about because the season is done anyway.
Furthermore, like mentioned before, what separates a 'leader' from a 'true leader' is that a true leader also leads, motivates and encourages his team through adversity. With playoff chances becoming increasingly jeopardised, we didn't see this at all from Rodgers. What we did see was an increase in negative hand gestures towards team mates and officials. An increase in digs towards his coaches. Basically, on the pitch, Aarod always seemed to radiate: "it's not me, it's *insert scapegoat here.*" Occasionally it has been the fault of either his receivers, his o-line, or the gameplan. But not all the time. I would have liked Aarod to throw his hand up and go "my bad" from time to time. But he simply hasn't.
And of course I understand his frustration. The offense, which posters like
@brandon2348 mentioned, has barely been invested in for years. Aarod has all the right to be disappointed in this. However, I would have loved for Aaron not to express this frustration towards the late round rookie receivers who were thrown into the line up due to injuries. But to reserve these thoughts either for himself, or direct them in a respectful manner towards the FO after the game/season. And preferably, privately. On and off the field, I want to see an actual captain who cares about morale. I want to see his team mates follow him because they adore him: Because he motivates them and he has the team's best interest at heart. Not solely because he is the walking football god and you do NOT want to disgruntle him.
About the quotes: Personally, I give more credibility to the words of former teammates who are not tied to the organisation anymore and hence do not directly benefit from painting a prettier picture than what is truthful. Do you guys really think that if younglings like Jamaal Williams, or even respected veterans like David Bakhtiari, were to be of the opinion that Aaron has certain character flaws, they would publicly speak up about it? Give me a break.
Don't get me wrong, as the unquestioned star player and leader of the team Rodgers has every right to be critical, including calling out the lack of effort in practice by the receivers. However, on the field, what I would like is for him to be as critical on his own play as he is on that of his teammates. What I would like for him is not to single out anyone, and most notably, to keep the morale high when the final whistle has not blown yet.
Throughout the years multiple factors have kept Aaron Rodgers from returning to the SB. This year, his own play has been one of them. I would have liked to see him be aware of this fact not only at the press conferences after, but also when he was on the pitch himself.
EDIT: Merry Christmas fellow Packer fans