Report: Packers cautiously optimistic for Rodgers return after extended meeting

The Green Bay Packers are cautiously optimistic that quarterback Aaron Rodgers will return for the 2022 season after he stayed in Green Bay for an extra few days "to plot out the team's future" and meet with head coach Matt LaFleur and others, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

After losing to the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round, Rodgers said he'd take some time to decide his future.

The reigning MVP added he doesn't want to be part of a rebuilding effort at this stage of his career. Green Bay is projected to be $46.3 million over the cap in 2022, per Spotrac. It also still needs to re-sign star wide receiver Davante Adams.

Rodgers' time with the Packers appeared to be drawing to a close last offseason. The signal-caller indicated he didn't want to return to Green Bay and stayed away from the team until training camp.

The Packers eventually eased tensions with its franchise player and promised to revisit the situation this offseason.

Rodgers is the favorite to win his second straight MVP trophy after throwing for 4,115 yards and 37 touchdowns against four interceptions.