Rodgers: Fear of NFL repercussions inhibit players from speaking out

Aaron Rodgers believes NFL players, including himself, should follow the example set by stars in the NBA and speak out more on social issues.

In an interview on ESPN Wisconsin's "Wilde & Tausch" last week, the Green Bay Packers quarterback praised the NBA's approach in this area, while suggesting the NFL might be at least partially responsible for players being unwilling to voice their opinions.

"I think it starts with leadership. I think [NBA commissioner Adam Silver] has done a good job promoting that type of environment. And I think some guys in the NFL are probably worried about repercussions on speaking their mind from the league," Rodgers explained.

"Those guys are doing it and they feel comfortable doing it," Rodgers said. "I think if more guys maybe did in our league, it would create a domino effect possibly."

Rodgers attended the ESPYs in July, where LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade encouraged athletes to step up and use their platform to address social issues.

"It's got to be natural, it's got to be authentic, and I think those guys did a really good job. It was a great message," Rodgers stated in last week's interview. "The thing I'll say in reference to speaking your mind, [I read] a piece on the Bennetts recently -- Michael and Martellus. And I turned to a friend and I said, 'Why do we have to say that it's refreshing when someone speaks their mind? Or is honest now?' I think that's kind of a societal issue that we have.

"We need more guys like that who feel comfortable speaking their mind."