Green Bay’s initial plan without quarterback Jordan Love has been set.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur announced Monday that Malik Willis will get the start in Week 2 against the Colts if Jordan Love (MCL sprain) isn’t cleared this week.
“I couldn’t give you a percentage, but if he gets cleared, we’ll give him every opportunity like we always will,” LaFleur said of Love. “I know he’s doing everything in his power. I know he’s spending a lot of time trying to get 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.”
Love not going on injured reserve is optimistic news considering it was initially reported his knee sprain could potentially keep him out for three to six weeks. The Packers’ franchise QB suffered the injury during the final drive of a Week 1 34-29 loss to the Eagles in Brazil.
Willis relieved Love for the final two plays of the game, throwing an incompletion and taking a sack as the clock struck zero.
Acquired by the Packers via trade with the Tennessee Titans just ahead of the 2024 season, Willis would make his fourth career start. The former third-round pick saw all three of his starts come during his rookie season in 2022, completing 25 of 49 passes for 234 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions. Willis scored his only touchdown on a scramble in his last start.
Green Bay possesses a group of pass catchers that could set up any QB for passing success. Jayden Reed led the group in Week 1, hauling in four receptions for 138 yards and a touchdown. Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks round out the talented group. Tight ends Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave are also components of LaFleur’s offense.
LaFleur added that Sean Clifford, a fifth-round pick by the Packers in 2023, would back up Willis should he get the start.
The Packers host the Colts on Sunday (1 p.m. ET) in the team’s home opener.
