Packers make telling decision about Jordan Love's short-term future

The Green Bay Packers have decided not to place quarterback Jordan Love on injured reserve. With a recovery timeline expected to be in the 3-to-6 weeks range, the IR was a realistic possibility. However, head coach Matt LaFleur said during his press conference on Monday that they will keep Love on the active roster. Had […]

Wendell Ferreira — NFL News Writer

Sep 9, 2024 5:01 PM EDT

Had Love gone on IR, he would be forced to miss at least four games. By not placing him there, the Packers keep the door open for an earlier return. ESPN's insider Adam Schefter reported earlier on Monday that the Minnesota Vikings game in week 4 is a realistic target, which would mean Love missing just two games, against the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans.

Starter

If Love isn't cleared, and LaFleur hasn't ruled Love out for Sunday, Malik Willis will be the starter.

"If Jordan is not cleared, then we'll start Malik (Willis) and Sean (Clifford) will be the backup," LaFleur said. "I couldn't give you a percentage (of chances for Love to play). But if he gets cleared, we'll give him every opportunity like we always will. I know he's doing everything in his power, I know he's spending a lot of time trying back as soon as possible. But certainly we're not gonna put him in a position where if he can't protect himself, that he'd go out there."

Asked about the decision to start Willis over Clifford, LaFleur said that they will respect the depth chart.

"Malik is on the roster, he's our number 2 quarterback. That's the way we're gonna roll," the coach added. "I think he's put a lot of time and effort into this. He's grinding, he's learning the terminology. We got confidence in him. If he gets a full week of preparation, a full week of practice, I've got confidence in him to go out there and perform at a high level."

Matt LaFleur said the Packers always have discussions about adding players, but that they didn't consider signing a veteran quarterback — despite a Sunday report that they had had contact with Ryan Tannehill.