Rodgers captures MVP award: Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers earned 48 of the possible 50 votes to win the 2011 Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award. Rodgers topped New Orleans QB Drew Brees in balloting by a nationwide panel of 50 media members who cover the NFL. The Packers star is the first Green Bay player honored since Brett Favre concluded a run of three straight seasons as MVP in 1997. “It means a lot to be recognized as a consistent player and contributing on my team,” Rodgers said. “I think it’s an award that relies on a player having the support of his teammates, obviously, guys blocking, guys running, guys catching, guys making plays. But I’m very honored to receive the award.” (Updated 02/05/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/27/12).
Fantasy Analysis
Rodgers led the NFL in passing with a 122.5 rating built on 45 touchdown passes, six interceptions and a 68.3 completion percentage as the Packers went 15-1 and won the NFC North title. However, Green Bay lost to the Giants at home in its first playoff game as the team struggled to live up to the lofty expectations. But Rodgers still turned in a memorable regular season as he recorded at least three touchdown passes in a game 10 times. He is the third consecutive quarterback voted MVP, joining New England’s Tom Brady (2007, 2010) and Indianapolis’ Peyton Manning (2008, 2009). Fantasy owners should consider Rodgers with a top-five selection in all drafts for next season. (Updated 02/05/2012).
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Fantasy owners are more than ready to commit a first-round pick to Aaron Rodgers in Fantasy drafts after another fantastic season. Rodgers posted career-high numbers in passing yardage (4,643) and touchdowns (45) in 2011 along with a career-low six interceptions (as a starter). There's really little to worry about here as Rodgers' receiving corps remains in place and his offensive line is in good shape even with the loss of center Scott Wells. Despite offensive coordinator Joe Philbin leaving to coach the Dolphins, Rodgers has a firm grip on the offense and should be fine. The only concern would be the Packers investing heavily in a running back. They've called rush plays for running backs 322 and 357 times over the last two seasons; any move they make to bring in a player who could push that number higher would mean fewer pass attempts for Rodgers. But even if they use a time machine to bring back Barry Sanders, Rodgers should still have the chance to put up very good numbers. If your league scores all touchdowns the same, Rodgers should be taken anywhere from No. 4 to No. 10 overall. If your league discounts passing touchdowns then Rodgers might get picked between 10th and 20th overall. If your league starts multiple quarterbacks, it would be perfectly acceptable to take Rodgers with the first overall pick. Or if you're inclined to take a quarterback at No. 1 overall in any format then Rodgers is your man. (Updated 5/24/12)
