Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst strongly believes Jordan Love is prepared to start at quarterback in the NFL right now.
“I think he’s ready to play, and I think he’s ready to be an NFL starting quarterback. He’s worked really hard, he’s shown a lot of progression,” Gutekunst said from the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. “I think the next step in his progression is to play.”
Gutekusnt said Love is “eager” to be a starter and get on the field.
Love would step into a starting role for the Packers if Aaron Rodgers retires or is traded out of Green Bay this offseason. Gutekunst confirmed the team is still waiting on Rodgers to have the necessary conversations about his future. The team is hoping to have a decision made by the start of free agency on March 15.
The Packers drafted Love in the first round of the 2020 draft. He’s sat behind Rodgers for three years, appearing only briefly over the last two seasons. In total, Love has played 157 snaps and thrown 83 passes over 10 regular-season games, including one start (in 2021).
In Philadelphia last season, Love completed six of nine passes for 113 yards and a touchdown over two series after Rodgers left the game with a ribs injury.
Three years of development and obvious progression in Year 3 have Love ready for the next step, which is proving it on the field in a starting capacity each and every week over a 17-game regular-season schedule.
Also, Gutekunst said he’s expecting Love to play in Green Bay, a comment that dismisses the possibility of him being traded this offseason if Rodgers returns.
“I’m excited to see Jordan grow and play and I certainly expect that to be here,” Gutekunst said, via Kassidy Hill of PackersNews.com.
