Report: Packers, Rodgers making progress on contract extension

The Green Bay Packers have made noticeable progress toward a contract extension with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

There is increasing optimism that the two sides will agree on a deal before the start of the regular season, Rapoport added.

The 34-year-old is expected to receive a sizable amount of up-front money, as opposed to a high guaranteed contract.

Rodgers has two years and roughly a combined $40 million remaining on his current contract, far below the market value for one of the league's truly elite passers.

The two-time MVP recently said he'd "love" to play until he was 40, following in the footsteps of Tom Brady and fellow Packers legend Brett Favre.