A quarterback change may be on the horizon for the Green Bay Packers.
Reports emerged on Saturday confirming the team’s concerns that Jordan Love might be sidelined due to a lower leg injury sustained on Friday night.
The Packers kicked off their season with an exciting game in Brazil, marking the NFL’s first-ever visit to the South American country.
While a narrow 34-29 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles was disappointing enough for Matt LeFleur’s squad—popularly considered Super Bowl contenders this year—the injury to their starting quarterback has compounded the team’s woes.
Initially, a serious ankle injury was ruled out, but concerns regarding a possible ACL injury surfaced later on Saturday.
NFL Network insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport documented that Love has sustained a sprained MCL, which is expected to sideline him for three to six weeks.
The injury occurred as he attempted a game-winning drive in the final 30 seconds, where his leg twisted awkwardly under the pressure of tacklers, with video later showing a concerning knee movement.
Although a severe injury was ultimately ruled out, Love’s MCL strain puts the Packers in a tough spot as he had just signed a new four-year, $220 million contract following his first season as a starter.
This situation presents a significant dilemma for Green Bay, as Love was integral to their plans moving forward.
The team’s only backup is Malik Willis, who saw limited action in the final moments of the game in Sao Paulo and has just joined the Packers via trade with the Tennessee Titans.
The Packers are set to face the Indianapolis Colts at Lambeau Field next Sunday for Week 2, but it’s uncertain who will be under center.
Considering the possibility of a trade for another quarterback might seem excessive for an injury that could sideline Love for only three games.
However, many experts have noted that the quarterback lineup appeared thin even after trading for Willis, and the need for a veteran presence may become critical.
This necessity becomes even more pronounced if Green Bay aims to maintain their momentum in a competitive NFC North, where teams like Detroit, Chicago, and Minnesota all harbor postseason ambitions.
Sean Clifford, who is familiar with the team, has been placed on the practice squad ahead of the Week 1 opener, but beyond him, the depth chart is sparse.
The most viable option seems to be Ryan Tannehill, a free agent after departing the Titans last season.
With 12 years of league experience and a familiarity with Willis from their time together in Tennessee over the last two seasons, Tannehill could serve as an immediate and effective replacement for Love.
Tannehill would not only step in capably for Love in the short term but also serve as a valuable backup during the playoff push—a necessity for a team aspiring to reach the Super Bowl.
Following a defeat in the Divisional Round to the San Francisco 49ers last season, the Packers are determined to improve this year, as many pundits predict they will at least make it further in the postseason.
However, without Love for an extended period and lacking a reliable alternative, they risk falling behind early in the season.
Other options like Desmond Ridder and Trevor Siemian, who have starting experience, as well as free agents PJ Walker, CJ Beathard, and Nate Sudfeld, could also fill the void.
Tannehill presents an immediate solution and potential support for a Super Bowl campaign.
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