While a notable quarterback found joy in defeating the Jets previously, the Steelers quarterback has stated that the same sentiment is not present for Sunday’s contest against the Packers, another of his former teams where he achieved significant success over their 18-year association.
“I don’t hold any negative feelings towards the organization,” the quarterback mentioned. “Certainly, I wish our final year there could have gone smoother, but I maintain positive relationships with many within that organization, and this isn’t a revenge game for me. I am simply looking forward to seeing some of those individuals and being on ‘Sunday Night Football.'”
The quarterback harbors a deep respect for his tenure in Green Bay and the accomplishments he and the Packers achieved. He does, though, express a desire for a different conclusion to their time together.
Following the Packers’ selection of his eventual successor — Jordan Love — in 2020, the quarterback responded with consecutive MVP seasons, displaying exceptional performance. One could argue that the quarterback’s play during that period surpassed that of any quarterback in history, including his former teammate Brett Favre’s remarkable three-year stretch from 1995-97, which included three straight league MVP awards.
The quarterback’s success was reflected in the Packers’ team success, as they clinched the NFC North title in both years and secured home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. However, in the playoffs, Green Bay experienced heartbreaking home defeats to the eventual champion Buccaneers and the 49ers (the quarterback’s childhood team), respectively.
In 2022, the quarterback participated throughout the year, despite playing a significant portion with a broken thumb on his throwing hand. Despite the quarterback’s injury and a 5-8 record, the Packers achieved three consecutive victories, placing themselves in a position to secure a playoff berth with a win against the visiting Lions in Week 18. The Lions emerged victorious, however, eliminating the Packers from postseason contention in what ultimately became the quarterback’s final game at Lambeau Field.
“Naturally, I would have preferred to conclude my career on a high note,” the quarterback remarked. “However, that’s not always how things unfold in the league. And, I was aware that a change was inevitable when Jordan was drafted. … I realized that at some point, there would be a transition, and if I desired to continue playing, it would likely be elsewhere. So, I am aware of the situation.”
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The quarterback’s determination to keep playing has paved the way for Sunday night’s matchup between his current team and his previous one. For both squads, Sunday presents an opportunity to maintain their leading positions in their respective divisions. For the quarterback, he has the chance to become only the fifth quarterback in NFL history to achieve a victory against all 32 NFL teams.
In prior years, the quarterback might have embraced the chance to etch his name in history against the Packers. Presently, however, the 41-year-old is simply thankful for the opportunity to share the field with the team that he will forever be associated with one last time.
“Distance often enhances affection,” he commented. “I have many cherished memories from my time. There were countless positive interactions with fans throughout the years. You know, residing in Green Bay, living in Suamico, living in Hobart, frequenting Chives, being out and about, encountering individuals at the Piggly Wiggly while shopping for groceries.
“I matured there. I spent 18 years there, from (age) 21 to 39. Consequently, I am appreciative of my time there.”
