The current state of the Green Bay Packers, even after just one week into the 2024 season, has left fans and analysts with plenty to discuss.
The team’s disappointing loss to the Eagles was compounded by concerns over a defense that, despite being led by new coordinator Jeff Hafley, seemed no better than the unit coached by his predecessor, Joe Barry. However, the most pressing issue is the health of star quarterback Jordan Love, who struggled in Week 1 and is now dealing with a knee injury.
Love suffered a strained MCL, and while the original prognosis gave him a three- to six-week window for recovery, there is growing speculation about his potential return as early as Week 2 against the Colts. According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, head coach Matt LaFleur hasn’t ruled out Love’s return, which is concerning given the risk of aggravating the injury if Love isn’t fully recovered.
Even seasoned analysts are puzzled by the prospect of Love suiting up so soon. On September 12, Spotrac editor Mike Ginnitti expressed disbelief over the situation on “The Spotrac Podcast.”
“Right now, he’s not even listed as doubtful for Week 2,” Ginnitti said. “Matt LaFleur is acting like there’s a chance Jordan Love could play on a modified basis to run some of the offense. That’s insane. You’ve got to treat this like an 18-week season because it is. You’ve got to be willing to sacrifice a couple of games to ensure your guy is healthy.”
The uncertainty surrounding Love’s health is only heightened by the Packers’ shaky quarterback depth. The team’s backup situation is concerning, with rookie Michael Pratt released during roster cutdowns and last year’s backup, Sean Clifford, relegated to the practice squad. Green Bay made a last-minute trade for Malik Willis, who is now Love’s primary backup.
Unfortunately, Willis’ NFL career has been far from promising. In his three career starts, he has thrown for just 234 yards and has yet to surpass 100 passing yards in a single game. He also has zero touchdown passes and three interceptions. The idea of keeping Love as the starter, even with a weakened knee, speaks volumes about the Packers’ lack of faith in Willis.
Ginnitti was critical of the Packers’ decision to bring in Willis as their backup. “I still can’t believe that happened,” he said, referring to the team’s choice to part ways with their previous backup options in favor of an unproven quarterback. “Malik Willis was getting benched in Tennessee preseason. That shows how badly things have started for him in the NFL.”
The lack of depth behind Love has sparked calls for the Packers to pursue a more experienced veteran quarterback. However, any talk of signing someone like Ryan Tannehill has been quickly dismissed by the team. LaFleur remains firm that if Love can’t play, Willis will get the start. Some have suggested that acquiring a player like Bailey Zappe of the Chiefs or pursuing a trade for Zach Wilson from the Broncos would make more sense given their starting experience. However, the Packers seem committed to their current plan.
Now, with Week 2 fast approaching, the Packers are left with two less-than-ideal options: an injured Love or an underwhelming Willis. Ginnitti summed up the situation by pointing out that the Packers’ failure to adequately address the backup quarterback position has put unnecessary pressure on Love.
“There’s part of me that wants Malik Willis to go out there and play poorly just to prove how bad this decision was,” Ginnitti said. “How do you do this to Jordan Love? He’s only got a few minutes of NFL experience himself, and now you’re risking it all with a weak backup plan. This team has so much talent and high expectations, yet they’re mishandling the most important position on the field. I’m baffled by it. I’d be even more baffled if they pushed Love back onto the field before he’s ready.”
As the Packers prepare for their home opener, the looming decision about Love’s availability will weigh heavily on the team. Whether it’s a compromised Love or an unproven Willis, the Packers’ quarterback situation is far from ideal heading into Week 2.