Patience rewarded: After three years as Brett Favre's understudy, an uncomfortable off-season in his shadow and seven mostly impressive games as a starter, Aaron Rodgers signed a lucrative contract extension reported to be worth $65 million over six years, with $20 million guaranteed.

The deal is similar to ones signed by Jacksonville's David Garrard and Dallas' Tony Romo. Rodgers may end up being the best of the trio.

"He's a good quarterback," general manager Ted Thompson told reporters Friday. "(He is) a good teammate, he cares about the Packers. And he wants to be the guy, there's something to be said for that."

Patience expired: The Packers released veteran defensive end Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila, whose impact has been limited by injury, and activated Justin Harrell on Saturday.

"We want to thank Kabeer for his contributions to the Green Bay Packers," Thompson said in a news release. "During his time here, he has been a big part of our organization and our community. We wish Kabeer and his family well."

In nine seasons with the Packers, Gbaja-Biamila appeared in 124 career games, including 74 starts. He is the franchise's all-time sacks leader with 74.5, having passed Reggie White (68.5) in 2007.

Gbaja-Biamila issued the following statement through the Packers:

"My nine years as a Green Bay Packer have been a blessing that is beyond words. I thank God for bringing me to this first-class organization and first-class community. During my time here, I've built relationships with a number of people in the Packer family. The front office executives, G.M.s, coaches, past and present players, the enormous support and administrative staff plus the greatest fans in football, all have helped make my time here truly special and I am thankful for that.

"It has been a very positive experience. I was able to build a family here and grow with a community that I call home. Again, I've been truly blessed. I don't know what my football future holds, but one thing I've realized is that football is more than a game -- it's about building relationships and changing lives. One of the commitments I've had throughout my career has been to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and that is something that I intend on doing whether on the field or not. God bless the Green Bay Packers!"

Moving on? The Brewers declined their contract option on veteran infielder Craig Counsell Friday, but still may bring the Whitefish Bay native back at lower price next season.

Staying put: The Brewers haven't officially announced it yet, but bullpen coach Bill Castro and first base coach Ed Sedar will join Macha's staff along with Sveum. Pitching coach Mike Maddux is apparently considering an offer from Texas, but the Brewers expect him to return as well.

Head scratcher: The University of Wisconsin outplayed No. 21 Michigan State for 59 minutes Saturday, only to lose on a late field goal. Bret Bielema will be ripped for calling a timeout before the kick, but the Badgers deserve some credit for a solid effort.