Sean Clifford officially named Packers' backup quarterback

It was pretty apparent that Sean Clifford won the Green Bay Packers backup QB job when the team decided to move on from Danny Etling after Packers Family Night, but at the same time, one never knows how things will ultimately shake out in training camp. Still, even then, it was pretty clear it was […]

Evan Winter NFL Managing Editor
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Green Bay Packers quarterback Sean Clifford (8) looks to throw in the fourth quarter of the NFL Preseason Week 1 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Green Bay Packers at Paycor Stadium in downtown Cincinnati on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023. The Packers won 36-19. Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

It was pretty apparent that Sean Clifford won the Green Bay Packers backup QB job when the team decided to move on from Danny Etling after Packers Family Night, but at the same time, one never knows how things will ultimately shake out in training camp.

Still, even then, it was pretty clear it was Clifford's gig. And sure enough, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that suspicion when spoke with reporters on Thursday.

"I think it's safe to say Sean's our No. 2 quarterback," said LaFleur. "I think a lot of it is just his mental makeup in terms of we saw it in the Cincinnati game, in terms of his ability to rebound in the game -it's not too big for him. So I think when the moments are at their highest, which is typically in your two minute situations; he's out there calm, cool and collected."

Clifford's clutch moments have been well-documented throughout practice and even in preseason games. He even had more big moments in Wednesday's practice, where he won the day for the offense after connecting with rookie wideout Grant DuBose for a 21-yard touchdown on 4th and 7 – during a two-minute drill, nonetheless.

It didn't stop there, though. Clifford then connected on the ensuing two-point attempt that finished off the Packers defense for good. 

It's been a strong preseason for Clifford, as he's proved a lot of doubters wrong when it comes to their post-draft assessments (including yours truly). Now, it's about solidifying his role as a backup and maybe, just maybe, becoming a starter -whether it's in Green Bay or elsewhere- down the road.

Featured image via Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK