I'm sure it was. If Aaron wanted to play for $5 mil Gute would have kept him. Not saying Jones is greedy at all. Simply saying money always gets in the way.
Originally Posted by: wpr
I don't think Jordy Nelson and Jones are in the same situation, but rumors were the the Packers released Nelson, and Nelson wanted to return, so Gute gave him a low ball offer assuming he'd walk away.
Based on James Jones comments, Nelson wanted to sign the low ball offer and come back, and Gute met with Nelson, sort of suggesting they're moving on, and Jones and others were telling Nelson you can't do it, go find the money and a place you are wanted.
Gute supposedly wanted Adams the ability to step up into the #1 WR role, and with the Rodgers/Nelson connection (at least in Gute's mind) was holding that back.
But yeah, Jones contract was at something like $17 million, that needed to be reduced. To what degree, and what degree both sides were willing to go to is unclear.