There are certain athletes that reach such heights in their respective sports, that even during their active years their opinions get considered in a manner reminiscent of high-profile analysts, coaches, or managers. Considering Aaron Rodgers’s legendary run which began in 2005 and continues to this day, it’s not very hard to see why he too falls in the same category.
The four-time MVP doesn’t usually shy away from sharing his wisdom with the newcomers and rookies. In keeping with the trend, A-rod recently heaved praise on one of the newcomers after the rookie was awarded a blockbuster deal.
Bryce Young earns admirer in Aaron Rodgers ahead of NFL debut
After a career filled with honors in high school and college, Bryce left for his new adventure following the first overall selection by the Carolina Panthers. The rookie seemed to have garnered a lot of attention from the NFL community which includes the New York Jets superstar.
In a recent press conference, Aaron disclosed that he got the opportunity to meet the Panthers star during practice and shared the following advice,
“Be gentle with yourself. It’s a long journey. It feels like every little snap and practice is the end of the world if it doesn’t go right. It’s just not true. It’s a long, long journey.”
Aaron Rodgers on Bryce Young: “I love the kid. … Carolina’s in good hands.” pic.twitter.com/l3UcEhs5Fx
— Joe Person (@josephperson) August 9, 2023
The path to glory is usually much rockier than the rookies anticipate, hence the one-time Super Bowl winner advised him to be confident as well as embrace the journey with enjoyment.
“It’s about holding onto your confidence and enjoying the ride. Enjoying the little things every day. But I think he’s got a great head on his shoulders, and he’ll be just fine,” said Aaron.
The 22-year-old seems to have impressed the Jets star with his physical capabilities and overall way of carrying himself.
“I like his demeanor. I like his movement. I like the way he throws. … I think Carolina is in good hands,” added Rodgers.
Panthers lock in Young with massive rookie deal
Young signed a 4-year, $37.9 million guaranteed rookie contract with the Panthers last month, making their relationship official. According to reports, his contract is fully guaranteed, and there is also a $24.6 million signing bonus, demonstrating the level of faith they have in the rising star. As per Sportac, the Alabama star will make $25.3 million in 2023, along with a fifth-year option for 2027.
The rookie player already demonstrated a strong dedication to his team, much like the Panthers did toward him. He also entered into a partnership with the renowned eatery Bojangles of Charlotte before signing his Panthers contract.
Bryce Young is embracing Charlotte already, recently agreeing to a partnership with the legendary restaurant Bojangles. Spoke with the Panthers franchise QB about that and how he's preparing for his first NFL training camp for @CBSSports https://t.co/lIchSuNZhn pic.twitter.com/0mFxtMudS9
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) July 19, 2023
The Heisman trophy winner wrapped up his college career by holding first place in Alabama consecutively in terms of single-season passing yards with 4,872, single-season passing touchdowns with 47, and career five-touchdown games with 5. Apart from these, his 8,356 career throwing yards and 80 career passing touchdowns placed him second in Crimson Tide history.
With the amount of attention the Panthers’ rookie has been getting lately, it could become a challenge to keep his head in the game going forward. How would you rate his contract? Let’s discuss below!