Aaron Rodgers feeling ‘unsettled’ by Packers’ right tackle situation

The Minnesota Vikings made headlines last weekend when they acquired Yannick Ngakoue from the Jacksonville Jaguars, giving the Packers another elite pass rusher to watch for as they head into the 2020 season. Ngakoue would be a concern in the best of times, but with Rick Wagner missing a significant portion of training camp and Billy Turner’s status in doubt as well, suddenly the matchup with Ngakoue (or with Danielle Hunter, for that matter) looms all the more larger.

That’s especially true for Aaron Rodgers, who will be counting on the right side of his line to keep him healthy and upright in Week 1. And in something of a departure from his typical form in such situations, Rodgers admits he’s a bit concerned.

“Strong to quite strong in the unsettled department,” he told reporters Wednesday afternoon. “It’s just what we’ve gotta figure out at this point.”

Offensive line issues notwithstanding, Rodgers is feeling relaxed and ready heading into his 16th NFL season. He says that’s because he spent the offseason and training camp tuning up the finer details in his game, as well as focusing on being his best self off the field.

“When you’re feeling good about yourself and confident and loving others, it’s naturally gonna put you in a better mood. I think my quality of life has been pretty high based on decisions I’ve made in my own life.”

A series of solid practices from his receivers might be doing a little to lift Rodgers’ mood heading into the regular season, too. He name-dropped both Allen Lazard and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in his Wednesday remarks, making special note of the strides the latter is making toward becoming a more consistent threat.

“I think he’s had some really good practices in a row and he’s started to lay down some good practice fundamentals that he can lean on,” Rodgers said. “This is the new standard for MVS. I’m proud of the way he’s gone about his business.”