Aaron Rodgers expresses regret over 'immunized' comment in new book

NEW YORK — Aaron Rodgers says in a soon-to-be published book that he should have handled discussing his COVID-19 immunization status differently.

The New York Jets quarterback was still with the Green Bay Packers in 2021 when he told reporters he was “immunized” against the virus — and then tested positive for COVID-19 three months later and had to be sidelined for 10 days.

Rodgers unsuccessfully appealed to the league that his homeopathic treatment regimen should qualify him as vaccinated. The four-time NFL MVP was widely criticized for not being truthful about his status.

“If there’s one thing I wish could have gone different, it’s that, because that’s the only thing (critics) could hit me with,” ESPN reported Rodgers told author Ian O’Connor for the biography, “Out Of The Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers,” which goes on sale next week.

ESPN said Rodgers says in the book his main reason for claiming he was “immunized” was the statement represented “the crux of my appeal.”

Rodgers said at the time he was allergic to an ingredient in the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines — polyethylene glycol — and was concerned about potential adverse reactions to the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

“But if I could do it again, I would have said, (forget) the appeal. I’m just going to tell them I’m allergic to PEG,” Rodgers says in the book. “I’m not getting Johnson & Johnson. I’m not going to be vaxxed.”

The book, based on interviews with 250 people, including Rodgers, also delves into other aspects of the quarterback’s life, including his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon after four snaps in his debut with the Jets last year, his long estrangement from his family, his introduction to using ayahuasca and details of his football playing career through college at Cal, his draft-day plunge in the first round in 2005 and his 18 seasons with the Packers.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has recently expressed regret over his controversial comment about being “immunized” in his new book, “The Quarterback Whisperer.”

In the book, Rodgers opens up about his decision to not receive the COVID-19 vaccine and instead pursue alternative methods of boosting his immunity. This decision drew criticism from fans, fellow players, and the media, as many felt that Rodgers was misleading the public by using the term “immunized” to imply that he was vaccinated.

In a recent interview, Rodgers acknowledged that his choice of words was a mistake and that he should have been more transparent about his vaccination status. He explained that he was trying to protect his privacy and avoid backlash, but now realizes that he should have been more upfront about his decision.

Rodgers went on to emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions and being honest with the public. He expressed regret over causing confusion and controversy with his comment and hopes to move forward with more transparency in the future.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and honesty, especially when it comes to public health issues. Rodgers’ willingness to admit his mistake and take ownership of his words is a step in the right direction towards rebuilding trust with fans and the community.