Rodgers explored innovative contract models: 'I don't think the NFL is ready'

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers discussed a pair of innovative contract models before he put pen to paper on a mammoth four-year, $134-million extension.

In a conference call Thursday, Rodgers said he and the Packers considered inserting a player option into his deal, allowing the quarterback to terminate his contract and become a free agent early. They also looked into the possibility of tying his deal to a percentage of the salary cap, allowing it to increase annually.

"Those things were definitely talked about," Rodgers said, according to The Athletic's Michael Cohen. "Ultimately, I don't think the NFL is ready for those types of contracts."

Favorable contract structures was a hot topic among players earlier in the offseason. In March, Kirk Cousins signed the first fully guaranteed contract in NFL history - a three-year, $84-million pact with the Minnesota Vikings.

"Obviously, this is a potential last or second-to-last contract for myself and my career," Rodgers added. "Wanting to think about my legacy, contract is a part of that for sure. It was definitely something (my agent) Dave (Dunn) and I talked about and why we were exploring a nontraditional contract."

Rodgers secured $103 million guaranteed over the course of his extension - the largest ever for an NFL player. Between base salary and bonuses, the two-time MVP will receive $67 million by the end of the 2018 calendar year.

He's now signed with Green Bay through the 2023 season and will be 40 years old when his contract expires.

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