Packers' LaFleur: Rodgers still among NFL's premier players

Aaron Rodgers' 2019 campaign won't go down as his best, but Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur continues to rank his quarterback among the NFL's elite.

"I think he's still one of the most talented players out there," LaFleur said Wednesday at his season-ending press conference, according to NFL.com's Grant Gordon.

"I know the numbers weren't what you guys say were up to the standard or whatever," LaFleur continued. "But I do think there was some really good play in there and I'm excited about moving forward into the future, really getting another offseason with him. ... Too many times, especially with that position, quarterback gets too much credit when it's going really, really good, and too much blame when it's not going as well. It's the nature of the position."

Before falling to the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, Rodgers completed 62% of his passes for 4,002 yards, 26 touchdowns, and four interceptions in the 2019 regular season. The touchdown mark tied for eighth in the NFL, but the completion percentage and the passing yardage were the lowest numbers Rodgers has posted in a full campaign since 2015.

Still, LaFleur believes the 36-year-old pivot has the ability to lead Green Bay for seasons to come.

"I think it totally depends on how long his body holds up," LaFleur said. "He seemed energized all season long. His mind is sharp as they come. You know, it's just his body holding up and I think he does an excellent job. He's a true professional, he knows his body and he does a great job taking care of his body."