How the Vikings 2021 expectations could drastically change next week

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers could decide as early as next week to not play during the upcoming season, which would be great news for the Minnesota Vikings.

Ever since the Green Bay Packers made him their starting quarterback in 2008, Aaron Rodgers has developed into one of the biggest nemesis the Minnesota Vikings have ever had to deal with.

Rodgers has started under center against the Vikings 25 times in his NFL career, including once in the playoffs. From 2015 to 2018, Minnesota able to keep the reigning MVP in check for the most part as he was only able to lead the Packers to a pair of wins in seven matchups.

But in the last two seasons, Green Bay and Rodgers are 3-1 against the purple and gold. Which is why next week could prove to be a pivotal moment in the fate of the Vikings in 2021.

Minnesota Vikings might not have to deal with Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers in 2021

For those who have been hibernating during the last few weeks, Rodgers and the Packers haven’t been exactly getting along very well. Multiple reports have come out recently about the All-Pro quarterback not feeling respected by the guys in Green Bay’s front office.

So far, Rodgers skipped the Packers’ OTA practices and their mandatory minicamp, and there are rumors going around that he might sit out the entire 2021 season unless he’s traded.

Green Bay not having the reigning NFL MVP under center would be great news for Minnesota. Rodgers deciding to sit out for the entire 2021 campaign would definitely shift the Vikings into becoming the favorites to win the NFC North.

So when might we find out what the Green Bay quarterback is going to do? Well, apparently, a decision could be made as early as next week on July 2.

Rodgers has the opportunity to opt out of the 2021 season without losing a significant amount of money.

According to ProFootballTalk’s Mike Florio on Friday, by choosing to opt-out of the 2021 campaign by July 2, the Packers quarterback wouldn’t be subject to mandatory fines for skipping training camp that would total around $2 million. He also likely wouldn’t have to give up a little over $18 million in bonus money in his current contract if he decides to opt out, according to Florio.

So by the end of next week, it’s quite possible that Minnesota could emerge as the new favorite to win the NFC North next season.