Aaron Rodgers says it's 'realistic' to play until 40, hopes it's with Packers

GREEN BAY - Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers reiterated Thursday he believes it’s “realistic” to play until his 40th birthday, but he has a specific hope for how the end of his career unfolds.

“I hope it’s in this locker room,” Rodgers said. “That would mean it’s been at a high level.”

On the day New England Patriots counterpart Tom Brady turned 40, Rodgers said he’s learned from how the future Hall of Fame quarterback approached his late 30s. Rodgers, who turns 34 in December, credited Brady’s eating habits, preparation routine, talent and intelligence for extending his career.

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Another thing Rodgers admires about Brady is how his career was played in one place. Brady, famously the draft’s 199th overall selection in 2000, enters his 18th season with the Patriots this fall.

Rodgers made it clear he has no desire to finish his career anywhere but Green Bay. He of course was with the Packers in 2008 when Brett Favre was traded to the New York Jets, and he later played against Favre’s Minnesota Vikings.

But Rodgers said his desire to stay in one place stems more from watching the way Joe Montana, Michael Jordan and even former teammate Charles Woodson split teams in their careers.

“The legacy,” Rodgers said, “you’re going to be remembered for multiple teams. It would be cool to start with one team and finish with one team.”