by Aaron Rodgers’ Impact on Jordan Love Likely Extends Beyond One Moment
When the Green Bay Packers selected quarterback Jordan Love with the 26th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, it was one of the more surprising moves in recent draft history. Not only did the Packers bypass other positions of need to draft a quarterback, but they did so while Aaron Rodgers, a future Hall of Famer, was still in the prime of his career at age 36.
While the selection drew criticism and skepticism from outsiders, it presented an intriguing dynamic between Rodgers and Love. On the surface, it seemed Rodgers would serve as a veteran mentor to groom his eventual replacement. However, Rodgers’ displeasure with the pick was evident, adding intrigue to how their relationship might unfold.
Nearly three years later, we’ve seen minimal interaction or mentorship between Rodgers and Love publicly. Rodgers has remained the unquestioned starter in Green Bay while Love has had limited opportunities as the backup. Their relationship appears cordial at best.
However, it would be short-sighted to think Aaron Rodgers’ influence on Jordan Love is confined to what we’ve seen on the surface or in a single moment. Rodgers’ presence as the veteran starter has undoubtedly shaped Love’s journey and development in ways that may not be immediately apparent or confirmed. His impact could extend far beyond anything said directly from quarterback to quarterback.
Learning by Observing Excellence
Whether Rodgers intended it or not, simply by virtue of spending the past three seasons as Rodgers’ understudy, Love has been afforded a front-row seat to observe one of the game’s all-time greats at work on a daily basis. From observing Rodgers’ meticulous film study and preparation routines to analyzing his pocket presence, progressions, and decision-making in live action, Love has seen firsthand what it takes to operate at an elite level.
Being able to witness an MVP-caliber quarterback’s work ethic and process up close is an invaluable learning experience, even if they never spoke one-on-one. Top athletes often cite the importance of osmosis—absorbing techniques and best practices from superior competitors, whether consciously or subconsciously. For Love, having that daily exposure to Rodgers’ excellence could prove immensely beneficial as he continues developing.
Modeling His Game After a Proven Style
While their personalities and leadership styles may differ, Rodgers and Love share similarities in physical talent and playing style that could influence Love’s development. At 6’2″ and 225 pounds with a rocket arm and athleticism, Love possesses a frame and skillset comparable to Rodgers. Both quarterbacks thrive outside the pocket and can make off-schedule plays with their legs or deep ball accuracy.
Seeing the success Rodgers has found by playing to his strengths could help validate and refine Love’s approach. If he models aspects of Rodgers’ footwork, ball placement, or read progression—even subconsciously—it could accelerate his progress. Rodgers has proved over a decade-plus that with the right mindset, Love’s talent and style can absolutely translate to high-level NFL production.
Indirect Motivation to Prove Himself
While their relationship remains undefined publicly, the pressure of someday replacing a legend like Aaron Rodgers may indirectly motivate Love in ways that don’t involve Rodgers directly. Knowing he was drafted specifically to be the heir to Rodgers’ throne in Green Bay, Love is undoubtedly aware of the massive shoes he’ll be tasked to fill whenever his time comes.
That pressure to perform and prove worthy of following a Hall of Famer could push Love to constantly hone his craft and maximize his abilities. From his early days as a backup to whenever he takes over as the starter, Love may feel an implicit responsibility to deliver at a high level that honors Rodgers’ legacy. While their dynamic remains uncertain, Rodgers’ immense shadow could light a competitive fire inside Love each time he steps on the field, whether in a game or practice.
Of course, it’s also fair to note Love’s journey is shaped by his own experiences, work ethic, motivations, and natural development apart from Rodgers. He was a successful starter at Utah State before the draft and brings his own talents, skills, and confidence to the position.
However, it would be naive to discount Aaron Rodgers’ looming presence as the veteran star completely. For better or worse, consciously or subconsciously, Rodgers’ influence permeates the Green Bay quarterback room and has undoubtedly impacted Love’s football growth since becoming his understudy in 2020.
Whether through observation, motivation, or inspiration from Rodgers’ playing style and success, the future Hall of Famer’s impact on Love likely goes well beyond any singular interaction. It will be fascinating to eventually see how Rodgers’ shadow informs Love’s play whenever he takes over as the Packers starter—whenever that may be. But one thing is clear: Rodgers’ greatness makes him impossible for Love to ignore as he continues honing his craft.
In summary, while their relationship remains undefined publicly, Aaron Rodgers’ three-year tenure as Jordan Love’s veteran teammate in Green Bay has undoubtedly shaped the young quarterback’s journey in myriad ways—through observation, inspiration, and indirect motivation. Rodgers’ excellence on the field serves as a model for the skills and mindset required at the position. And his immense legacy provides implicit pressure for Love to perform at an elite level whenever his time as the Packers starter arrives. So while their dynamic is complex, Rodgers’ influence on Love’s development appears far-reaching in nature if not always directly visible. It will be fascinating to eventually see how Rodgers has informed Love as the next chapter of the Packers’ quarterback legacy plays out.
