Ex-Chiefs WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling Defends ‘Diva’ Aaron Rodgers: “He’s One of the Greatest”

WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling has played alongside great QBs during his six seasons in the league. The 29-year-old recently shared his views supporting former teammate, Aaron Rodgers, in an interview. Valdes-Scantling praised A-Rod for his care and dedication to his teammates.

Scantling talked about Rodgers’ behaviour during his time with the Jets, where he quickly bonded with his new teammates. Despite some setbacks, Rodgers was always committed to building friendly relationships on and off the field with his teammates.

Marquez’s deep connection with Rodgers

According to Marquez, Rodgers genuinely cares about his teammates, not just as football players, but as individuals. Scantling said, “Aaron has taught me so much on and off the field. He’s a big advocate of mental health and how you approach life, not just football. The things that he’s gone through over the years, he shares that and kind of just lets you know, like, ‘hey, I’m human too'”.

During his time playing with Rodgers in Green Bay, Valdes-Scantling had great success, achieving over 2,000 receiving yards and scoring many touchdowns. However, his performance hasn’t been the same since joining the Kansas City Chiefs. Critics have targeted him, especially after dropping important passes in 2023, leading to questions about his future in the NFL. Despite any ups and downs in his career, he acknowledges the impact Rodgers had on his career.

However, not only Scantling, Aaron’s caring nature towards his teammates has been witnessed by other players also. One of them is Zach Wilson.

Aaron Rodgers mentored Zach Wilson through an injury setback

Last year, despite suffering a season-ending injury during his Jets debut, Aaron Rodgers remained deeply committed to supporting his teammates. As per NY Post, he stayed in touch with quarterback Zach Wilson daily, offering guidance and encouragement.

Rodgers’ dedication to mentoring his teammates is evident in his words: “I talk to Zach all the time… Just want him to go out and play free and confident.” Even though he couldn’t play, A-Rod planned to stick around and assist his team in their quest for success. His presence and experience undoubtedly benefit the team, as head coach Robert Saleh expressed: “His presence is not only welcome, but wanted.”

Rodgers’ even remained optimistic about the Jets’ chances of winning the Super Bowl, saying, “I believe in this team… I’m just going to do everything I can to help them get there.” With his guidance, quarterback Zach Wilson had the opportunity to excel as the Jets’ starting quarterback. Even though the team couldn’t make a major impact in the 2023 season, A-Rod’s attempts were surely appreciated.

Read more: Chiefs Release Marques Valdes-Scantling: 5 Possible WR Replacements for 2024 Super Bowl Champions