“I’m not anti-vaccination!” With these four words Aaron Rodgers begins his declaration to renounce vaccination. The star quarterback is not doing himself any favours with his argumentation and is slapping pandemic supporters and fans alike in the face in the process, finds ran writer Tom Offinger. Comment.

Munich – Aaron Rodgers has achieved a lot in his NFL career. A Super Bowl win, three MVP awards, countless Pro Bowl nominations and awards. His comments about not vaccinating against the corona virus will not be counted among those glorious achievements.

Originally, it was only health concerns that caused one of the league’s great figureheads to doubt. But the longer the 37-year-old explained himself on the “Pat McAfee Show”, the more he drifted into the dubious chain of arguments of the pandemic deniers. And is likely to have left lasting damage in his wake.

Missing studies are no longer an excuse

Yes, we all have to accept Aaron Rodgers’ decision. He is a 37-year-old, independent-minded man who, after careful consideration and his own research  – as he himself says – decided against Corona vaccination for the good of his own body. What one does not have to accept, however, are the vague arguments with which the quarterback justifies his renunciation.

The lack of long-term studies is simply no longer a valid excuse after almost a year of vaccination. The sample size is too large, and the statements of experts who rule out serious long-term consequences are too clear. By the way, not only in Germany, but also in the United States.

Aaron Rodgers: A role model who is no longer one

It is almost shameful to hear such words from the mouth of an athlete who was still praised for his empathy during the lockdown. At the time, he said he didn’t want to personally urge people to stay home. After all, he was extremely privileged as a football star and “normal” citizens would face other problems during the lockdown. These remarks now appear in a different light.

Week after week, millions of fans root for Rodgers and the Packers, let alone the thousands of spectators on site. The latter in particular would not be possible without an effective vaccine. It is ironic that Rodgers has been denied this connection. Rodgers argues that vaccination is unnecessary because it does not protect against infection or the passing on of the virus. However, although this is possible in vaccinated people, it is much less likely. This is shown by previous experience and studies by leading scientists.

Like other celebrities before him, Aaron Rodgers does one thing above all: he tramples on the work of the tireless doctors and nurses. His statements are also a slap in the face to many Packers supporters who saw him as their great hero and role model.

He may not be anti-vaccination, but he is lacking in solidarity. Towards his teammates, who count on him and also had themselves vaccinated for the good of the team. And also towards the many people who have had themselves vaccinated above all so that we can all return to a normal life.

In my eyes at least, the 37-year-old has gambled away his credit with his belittling statements.