Many sports books in Las Vegas have removed any NFC North related betting options in anticipation of an Aaron Rodgers retirement.
Whether Aaron Rodgers decides to play for the Packers this season and beyond isn’t just affecting the team, but it’s having an impact on the world of sports betting.
Sports Illustrated’s Bill Huber reports Las Vegas sports books have begun preparation for what they believe is a soon-to-be retirement announcement from Rodgers. Things like NFC North futures for each team including Packers’ 2021 over-under win totals, playoff odds, divisional odds, and weekly lines have all been removed.
According to Pro Football Reference, one source with inside information of the situation between Rodgers and the Packers said, “Vegas oddsmakers tend to be pretty sharp,” while adding “many, many factors” will have an impact on the eventual results.
The Aaron Rodgers holdout is impacting more than just the Packers
Green Bay is set to open training camp on July 27, but the issues with Rodgers have yet to be resolved and it doesn’t appear to be coming to an end any time soon. Should the reigning NFL MVP retire, he would avoid $2 million in fines for his hold out of training camp, but he would also lose a $6.8 million roster bonus which would be payable during each week of the 2021-22 regular season. Rodgers would also be required an $11.5 million repayment for unearned signing bonus money in 2021.
Whatever income Rodgers has made recently from his side hustles as a Jeopardy host and teaming up with Bryson DeChambeau in The Match could have made up for the impending fees and money lost if he continues to hold out.
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport says the situation is “essentially exactly the same as it was in March and April”. If that’s the case, Rodgers is probably still unhappy and it’s doubtful he’ll be wearing green and gold any time soon.
Looks like more Jeopardy and golf for now.