The Green Bay Packers shocked a lot of people when they selected Jordan Love in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. It seemed to signal the winding down of Aaron Rodgers’ career with the franchise, but all he has done since that time is win the MVP award the two following seasons.
Rodgers and the team were able to put aside their differences this offseason, working out an extension that will likely keep Rodgers in a Packers uniform for the remainder of his career. So, where does that leave Love?
The organization has been very honest about it, as they do not know what the future holds for the former Utah State product. Rodgers could play for one more season or he could play out the entirety of his extension, leaving no opportunity for Love to get on the field.
All Love can do is make the most of the opportunities presented to him. He struggled a bit in a spot start against the Kansas City Chiefs last season when Rodgers tested positive for COVID-19, but that was an impossible spot for him to succeed in.
This offseason, he has been making strides and Packers’ personnel is noticing. General manager Brian Gutekunst praised the work that Love has put in during his press conference on Wednesday.
“I think he’s really stacked days and I think you’re starting to see a little more consistency,” Gutekunst said. “I think you always saw the flashes. I think you’re seeing more consistent day-to-day decision-making, confidence in letting it loose when he sees it and not hesitating or maybe thinking twice. I know [Matt LaFleur’s] talked about a lot about just kind of things are slowing down for him a little bit. But one of the things I’ve seen is when he recognizes it, trusting it, and then just really kind of being more violent with his throws, or more intent in what he’s doing.”
Love will get the starting nod in at least the first two preseason games for Green Bay. The team is hopeful that the work Love has been putting in and the progress he is showing during practice translates to the field with productive drives even if they don’t result in points on the board.
“Certainly, we’d like to score,” Gutekunst said. “But I think just be productive with the opportunities you’re given. Every play, there’s going to be different opportunities and just making the right decisions, getting in and out of the huddle, but making plays when they’re there to be made.”
While Love may not get on the field much this upcoming season, these are important reps for him. He is not only trying to show the Packers what he can do but auditioning for other teams around the league.
If Rodgers commits to playing beyond this season, Jordan Love could become a popular trade target for teams around the league looking to address their quarterback needs. As he enters Year 3, it is anyone’s guess what his future holds in the NFL.
