Five quarterbacks the Packers could add while Jordan Love is hurt include some intriguing options. Jordan Love’s knee injury, specifically an MCL sprain, is not season-ending, but it does require a recovery period of three to six weeks. This situation creates a pressing need for the Packers to consider additional quarterbacks to challenge backup Malik Willis for the starting role during Love’s absence.
Green Bay has Sean Clifford, last year’s backup, on the practice squad, making it a straightforward option to elevate him to the active roster. However, Malik Willis has only been with the Packers since August 26, giving him limited time to grasp the offensive playbook before their Week 2 matchup against the Colts.
Ryan Tannehill stands out as the most seasoned candidate available. After parting ways with the Titans, Tannehill chose not to sign with another team. His performance in 2023 was subpar, tallying four touchdowns against seven interceptions in eight starts. Yet, just two years ago, he posted an impressive 94.6 quarterback rating. If the Packers bring him in, they would need to quickly integrate him into their offensive scheme, similar to the challenge facing Willis.
The Packers have sufficient cap space to acquire Tannehill. This scenario could mirror last year’s situation with the Browns and Joe Flacco, who stepped in and led his team to a 4-1 record while throwing 13 touchdowns in five games. If Green Bay can secure a 2-2 record in the next four games, it could significantly impact their playoff seeding and division title aspirations. Notably, they face the Titans in Week 3, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
C.J. Beathard, recently released by the Jaguars, could also be a viable option. He won his only start last season as an injury fill-in, throwing for 178 yards without any mistakes in a shutout victory against Carolina. His previous experience with offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich during his time with the 49ers could provide valuable familiarity, even though he had a disappointing record of 1-9 as a starter with 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions.
Lastly, Trey Lance, currently under contract with the Cowboys, might be obtainable for a late-round pick swap. With Cooper Rush as the primary backup to Dak Prescott, Lance’s position is somewhat expendable, especially with his impending free agency in the spring. Despite a challenging preseason where he threw five interceptions, he also managed two touchdown passes and demonstrated his running ability. While Lance shares similarities with Willis as a quarterback with high expectations but limited opportunities, his career stats of five touchdowns in 102 attempts could make him a more appealing short-term starter.
Bailey Zappe, 25, Chiefs practice squad
Greg Auman is an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports. He previously spent a decade covering the Buccaneers for the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic. You can follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.
