The Green Bay Packers may find themselves facing a significant dilemma if their starting quarterback, Jordan Love, is sidelined due to injury. Love, who stepped into the role after Aaron Rodgers’ departure, has been leading the Packers’ offense with steady improvement. However, if his injury proves serious, the Packers will need to assess their options at quarterback to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Here’s a look at the potential quarterback options Green Bay could explore if Jordan Love’s injury requires him to miss extended time.
1. Backup Quarterback: Sean Clifford
The most immediate and obvious option is Sean Clifford, Green Bay’s current backup quarterback. The rookie out of Penn State was drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and has spent the season learning the Packers’ system. While he has shown flashes of potential in practice and preseason, Clifford remains an unproven commodity at the NFL level.
Clifford’s experience as a four-year starter at Penn State is valuable, as he played in a variety of high-pressure situations. His leadership and intelligence were key reasons the Packers drafted him, but thrusting him into the starting role midseason could be a daunting task. If Love’s injury is short-term, Clifford could be asked to hold down the fort for a game or two. However, if the injury is more serious, Green Bay may need to look for a more experienced option.
2. Free Agent Market
If the Packers are concerned about Love’s long-term availability, they may consider bringing in a veteran from the free-agent market. While the current pool of free-agent quarterbacks is not packed with star power, there are a few options that could provide stability in the short term.
One of the most intriguing names is Carson Wentz, the former No. 2 overall pick. Wentz has had a rollercoaster career, going from near-MVP status with the Philadelphia Eagles to struggling with inconsistency and injuries in recent years. However, he still possesses a wealth of NFL experience and could be a serviceable stopgap for the Packers if needed.
Another option is Nick Foles, a Super Bowl-winning quarterback who has spent time with several teams, including the Eagles, Bears, and Colts. While Foles is no longer a long-term solution, his ability to step into a situation and manage an offense makes him a reliable choice. His familiarity with high-pressure situations could benefit the Packers in the event that Love’s injury sidelines him for multiple games.
Other potential free agents include Matt Ryan, who is nearing the end of his career but could still provide leadership and experience, and Colt McCoy, a well-traveled veteran who has proven capable of running an offense in a backup role.
3. Trade Market
The trade market is another avenue the Packers could explore if they feel a more permanent solution is needed at quarterback. While finding a midseason trade partner for a quarterback can be challenging, there are a few potential candidates who could be available.
One name to consider is Jacoby Brissett of the Washington Commanders. Brissett has bounced around the league but has been a solid starter and backup throughout his career. He’s known for his ability to manage games, avoid turnovers, and provide stability under center. If Washington decides to fully commit to their young quarterbacks, Brissett could be available for the right price.
Another intriguing option could be Andy Dalton of the Carolina Panthers. Dalton has taken on the role of mentor for rookie quarterback Bryce Young, but he’s a veteran with plenty of starting experience. If the Packers are looking for a steady hand to guide them through the season, Dalton could be a good fit.
Finally, there’s Tyrod Taylor of the New York Giants. Taylor has played both as a starter and backup throughout his career and could be a valuable asset for Green Bay. His dual-threat ability and experience could provide the Packers with a unique option if they decide to make a move.
4. Elevating a Practice Squad Player
Another route the Packers could take is elevating a quarterback from their own practice squad or signing one from another team’s practice squad. While this would be a more speculative option, it could provide some flexibility if Love’s injury is short-term and the team simply needs a temporary backup.
The Packers currently have Alex McGough on their practice squad, who has shown promise in the preseason. McGough has been with the team throughout the year and knows the system, making him a familiar and potentially reliable option to step in if needed.
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty
While Jordan Love’s injury status remains unclear, the Packers will need to be prepared for all possibilities. Whether they decide to roll with backup Sean Clifford, sign a veteran free agent, explore trade options, or elevate a practice squad player, Green Bay’s front office will need to act quickly to ensure their quarterback situation remains stable.
The Packers are in the middle of a competitive season, and keeping their offense on track without Love will be essential to maintaining their playoff aspirations. Regardless of the direction they choose, Green Bay has options to mitigate the loss of their starting quarterback, should his injury be serious.