GREEN BAY, Wis. — Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers talked Friday about suspended Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun, Rodgers' friend and business partner, during his post-practice press conference.
On his reaction to Braun getting suspended for 65 games and essentially admitting he was guilty of using performance-enhancing drugs:
Rodgers: "Well, I was shocked, I really was, just like I know many of you were. I was backing up a friend, who looked me in the eye on multiple occasions and repeatedly denied these allegations, said they weren't true. So it is disappointing, not only for myself as a friend but for obviously Wisconsin sports fans, Brewer fans, Major League Baseball fans. It doesn't feel great being lied to like that, and I'm disappointed about the way it all went down."
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On Braun violating the fans' trust:
Rodgers: "Well, it's important. Fans are what make our business go. We're fortunate here in Wisconsin to have some of the best sports fans, from Packer fans, Brewer fans, Bucks fans, fans that stick behind their team — win or lose. We've been fortunate here in Green Bay to have some success and continue to keep this thing going and give our fans a lot to cheer about. The Brewers have had some success as well the last few years. It's important to make sure to keep those guys on your side."
On whether Braun has reached out to him:
"Yeah, I've talked to him."
On how their relationship will be affected, personally and from a business standpoint:
"That's yet to be determined. I don't regret backing a friend up. Obviously, in hindsight, a more measured approach next time would obviously be a better course of action. People make mistakes. I definitely believe in forgiveness and moving forward. Obviously, he has a tough task in front of him moving forward with his career, on and off the field. As far as the business goes, right now I'm focused on football, and I have people who can help me work with those type of issues."
On whether he still considers him a friend:
"I was disappointed by the way it went down. I trusted him, and that's the thing that probably hurts the most."
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