The current state of the Green Bay Packers is raising significant concerns, even though the 2024 NFL season is only one week old. The Packers’ disappointing opening loss to the Eagles, combined with the underwhelming performance of their revamped defense under new coordinator Jeff Hafley, has already caused frustration. However, the immediate focus is on star quarterback Jordan Love, who is dealing with a knee injury and struggled in Week 1.
Love is suffering from a strained MCL, which initially had a recovery timeline of 3 to 6 weeks. Despite this, coach Matt LaFleur and the Packers are considering the possibility of Love returning in Week 2 against the Colts. This potential decision has raised eyebrows, particularly if Love isn’t fully healthy.
Mike Ginnitti, editor of Spotrac, a site known for its analysis of sports contracts and finances, expressed astonishment at the idea of Love playing so soon. On “The Spotrac Podcast,” Ginnitti criticized the Packers’ approach, stating, “This guy is not even doubtful right now for Week 2. Matt LaFleur is talking like there’s a chance they might play Jordan Love on a limited basis just to run some of the offense in Week 2. That’s absolutely outrageous. You need to treat this as an 18-week season. It’s crucial to ensure your quarterback is fully healthy before rushing him back.”
The Packers’ situation is compounded by their lack of depth at quarterback. The team released 2024 draft pick Michael Pratt and moved Sean Clifford, last year’s No. 2 QB, to the practice squad. They then traded for Malik Willis as Love’s backup. Willis, who has only three career starts with a combined 234 passing yards, zero touchdowns, and three interceptions, raises concerns about his readiness to step up.
Ginnitti expressed disbelief at the Packers’ decision to rely on Willis, noting that the team’s faith in him seems minimal compared to their commitment to Love. “I’m still shocked they made that move,” Ginnitti said. “The Packers are too talented to leave their quarterback situation in the hands of an unproven player like Willis, who was even benched during the preseason in Tennessee. It’s astounding that they chose Willis over maintaining more reliable backup options.”
The notion of bringing in a seasoned veteran like Ryan Tannehill was dismissed by the Packers, with LaFleur insisting that Willis would be the backup if Love can’t play. Options such as Bailey Zappe from the Chiefs or even trading for Zach Wilson from the Broncos might have been more sensible.
With the Packers’ home opener approaching, the choice now seems to be between a potentially compromised Love or an inexperienced Willis. Ginnitti believes this predicament is unfair to Love and criticizes the Packers for neglecting to bolster their backup quarterback position. “Part of me wants Malik Willis to fail just to prove how poor this decision was,” Ginnitti said. “It’s baffling how the Packers are handling the most crucial position on the field. They have a strong roster and high expectations, yet they seem to be undermining their chances with this quarterback situation. If they push Love back onto the field while he’s not fully recovered, it could be a huge mistake.”