Minnesota Vikings cornerback Isaiah Rodgers' recent social media activity and press conference are a testament to the notion that the internet isn't real life. Virtually, he seemed ready to stick it to his former employer, the Philadelphia Eagles, in their Week 7 matchup. In person, it feels more like a reunion than a chance for retribution.
Some apparently faulty information regarding Rodgers' free agency this past offseason ostensibly struck a chord heading into Minnesota's showdown with the Eagles.
He took exception to intel that Philadelphia "would have at least" matched the offer that ultimately drew him to the Vikings if given the chance. However, that was on X, and the Super Bowl LIX champion's comments in the flesh don't radiate that same hostile energy.
Minnesota Vikings CB Isaiah Rodgers downplays revenge game vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Rodgers couldn't be much clearer when talking to reporters on Wednesday ahead of facing Philly. He candidly stated it's not about exacting vengeance on them.
Moreover, the 27-year-old sounded more eager to see his former Eagles comrades than to prove their front office wrong for letting him go to Minnesota.
"[It's] just the Minnesota Vikings versus the Philadelphia Eagles. I'm not trying to make the game bigger than it has to be. It's not an Isaiah Rodgers revenge game or anything like that. It's all love [in Philadelphia], and I know it's vice versa ... everything's still cool."
That's quite a different tone than the one Rodgers took in response to the well-timed, albeit evidently incorrect, details about his departure from Philly. While it was through an online post, his reply depicts some frustration.
"Lol don't believe the media," Rodgers wrote. "See [y'all] Sunday," followed by several crying laughter emojis.
Perhaps Rodgers is bothered by someone airing out his dirty laundry, or maybe just because the news is inaccurate. Nevertheless, it doesn't have anything to do with personal motivation, and he remains focused on the task at hand: beating the Eagles.
After getting engaged during Minnesota's bye amid a career-best campaign that started in historically awesome fashion, Rodgers is riding high right now.
Don't let the narratives that come with playing against his ex-team steer you away from the facts. There should be no ill will from either side, especially considering he helped bring a title to Philly before joining the Vikings.