Aaron Rodgers, the quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is a figure that divides opinion in the world of sports. While some admire his candidness and unconventional views, others are put off by his blunt demeanor. Craig Carton of OutKick falls into the latter group.
Recently, Carton criticized Rodgers, whom he calls “The LeBron James of the NFL,” following his comments on a podcast with Steelers teammate Cam Heyward. Rodgers rebuked ESPN for its coverage involving Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel, describing it as “gutless hypocrisy.” During a game against the New York Jets on September 7, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J., Rodgers spoke to reporters.
Rodgers reportedly alleged that his former fiancée, actress Shailene Woodley, remarked she needed to “go f–k this guy” shortly after agreeing to marry him. Carton was not amused, saying, “Mr. Narcissist himself, Aaron Rodgers went on Cam Heyward’s Podcast, choosing it as the optimal spot for self-embarrassment.” Carton emphasized that Woodley has not publicly mentioned Rodgers for two years, yet he brings up potentially fabricated incidents.
Carton remarked, “Just because Aaron Rodgers said it doesn’t mean it’s true,” concerning Rodgers’ startling claims about his 2022 breakup with Woodley. Carton views Rodgers as peculiar, demanding, narcissistic, and someone women should avoid.
Rodgers did not stop at Woodley. He spoke about former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick, criticizing her emotional state post-retirement and her refusal to contribute financially to his Malibu house. Danica Patrick has not commented publicly in a while, and Carton ties this behavior to Rodgers’ narcissism. Carton asked, “What joy do you get from embarrassing Shailene Woodley or Danica Patrick publicly?”
Rodgers additionally mentioned unnamed former teammates, whom Carton identified as Greg Jennings and Jermichael Finley, both former players of the Packers. During a minicamp in Pittsburgh on June 12, 2025, Rodgers was seen practicing. Carton summed up his thoughts by stating Rodgers may be a certainty for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but questioned his character, saying, “As great as Aaron Rodgers was…he’s a lousy person.” He further pondered whether it is better to excel at football or be a good person.
Craig Carton is outspoken in his views, which he shares in the Craig Carton Show.