The Green Bay Packers took a significant risk by sticking with Sean Clifford and Michael Pratt throughout training camp, only to release both when the roster cuts came. Instead, they traded a seventh-round pick to the Tennessee Titans for Malik Willis, a move that now seems to have backfired.
With Jordan Love sidelined due to injury, the Packers are left with a quarterback dilemma. Willis, who just joined the team two weeks ago, may not be ready to step up as a starter. The only other option is Clifford, whom the Packers had previously deemed insufficient for the backup role. Securing a win or two is essential to keep the team’s playoff hopes alive while Love is out.
In response to the situation, the Packers have reportedly reached out to free-agent quarterback Ryan Tannehill, according to Dianna Russini of The Athletic. Although no deal has been finalized, Green Bay’s interest in Tannehill is evident.
The Packers’ pursuit of Tannehill raises questions about Willis’s future. If Tannehill joins the team, Green Bay would have three quarterbacks on the 53-man roster, potentially demoting Willis to the third spot. This scenario could force the team to choose between keeping Willis on the roster or risking cutting him and trying to reassign him to the practice squad—a gamble given that a draft pick was used to acquire him.
Tannehill, while not a perfect solution, offers significant experience, having started 151 games and previously played at a Pro Bowl level. Although he had a disappointing season with the Titans last year, throwing four touchdowns against seven interceptions before being replaced by Will Levis, he is familiar with a similar offensive system under Arthur Smith. If the Packers can adapt their game plan to utilize Tannehill effectively and help him develop chemistry with their receiving corps, he could provide a valuable boost.