It remains to be seen if Alex Smith will get an opportunity to see the field with the Washington Football Team in 2020. But Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers All-Pro quarterback, hopes to see him under center this season. In an interview with Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, Rodgers showed love for Smith as he makes his valiant return to the NFL.

“I’m just really proud to know him,” Rodgers said, via Matt Schneidman of TheAthletic.com. “I was asked by a few people like ‘what is he doing?’ And I thought, ‘I’d be doing the same thing.’ I think when you’re a competitor – and I know how Alex is, I’ve known him for a long time obviously – just the drive that he has. I think he wanted to prove it to himself he could come back and compete still.”

For those that don't know, Rodgers and Smith were both taken in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Smith would be selected by the San Francisco 49ers with the No. 1 pick. On the other hand, Rodgers — a California native and who was a fan of the 49ers as a kid — had to wait until pick No. 24.

Article Continues Below
Related News
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) flexes as he does a “Lambeau Leap” with Packers fans after scoring a touchdown.
Packers’ Christian Watson gets promising OTA update from Matt LaFleurJosh Davis ·
Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58) carries the ball and runs against Chicago Bears linebacker Jack Sanborn (57) during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit
How ESPN projects Packers, Bears’ chances to beat out Lions in NFC NorthBen Strauss ·
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) gestures to the fans before the game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.
Packers rumors: New Jaire Alexander contract proposal comes to lightScotty White ·
Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) on the field after loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field.
Packers’ Jordan Love has sky-high hopes for Matthew Golden connectionBenedetto Vitale ·
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur during the Green Bay Charity Softball Game hosted by Jordan Love on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium in Grand Chute, Wis.
Packers’ Jordan Love should stick to throwing footballs after lollipop 1st pitchDouglas Fritz ·
Featured image Aaron Rodgers Jordan Love
Packers legend Aaron Rodgers’ surprising opinion on retiring with Green BayDylan Fine ·

Despite Smith going before Rodgers, there doesn't seem to be bad blood between the two signal-callers. While Smith has battled back from a gruesome leg injury, Rodgers has been a fan from afar of Smith's perseverance.

“He’s a great guy and has a great family,” Rodgers said. “He’s been a great face of this league for so many years. I’ve enjoyed competing against him. I’ve enjoyed watching him. And he’s one of the NFL good guys. I think there’s been so many people that have been pulling for him in his recovery and especially after watching the piece on him, how can you not pull for that guy? He’s a spectacular guy and I hope he gets an opportunity to play this year.”

Ron Rivera has already announced that Dwayne Haskins will be the starter for Washington in Week 1. Nonetheless, Aaron Rodgers is anxious to see Smith get a chance to suit up and play at some point this season.