Packers Quarterback Jordan Love’s Struggles Raise Concerns for Green Bay
The Green Bay Packers may need to rethink their approach to the quarterback position in 2024 as Jordan Love’s performance continues to disappoint. After dropping a disappointing 19-17 loss to the Denver Broncos, it’s clear that Love’s starting job is on the line. This loss only amplifies the doubts surrounding Love’s ability to excel as a starting quarterback. Despite three years of backing up Aaron Rodgers, Love has failed to prove himself as the next viable option. His sporadic appearances in games have showcased glimpses of talent, but little overall growth. Head coach Matt LaFleur tried to manage expectations during the offseason, urging fans to be patient. However, three consecutive losses have revealed Love’s shortcomings, pushing the Packers towards the bottom-tier of starting quarterbacks.
Love’s performance against Denver was underwhelming, to say the least. His lack of accuracy in deep throws and questionable decision-making have further solidified concerns. While his box score might not reflect the reality, his two touchdown passes were hardly impressive. The first touchdown was a floating pass to Romeo Doubs, which was ultimately intercepted by Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II. The second touchdown was even more fortuitous, as Love’s ill-advised throw behind Doubs was miraculously caught by rookie Jaylen Reed. These strokes of luck eventually ran out, however, as Love made a critical error in the final moments of the game. Instead of choosing better options, he threw an interception into double coverage, sealing the Broncos’ victory.
This recent loss encapsulates Love’s performance in the Packers’ three-game losing streak, making it increasingly likely that he will settle as a mediocre player. This is precisely the reason why the Packers opted to sign him to a backup-level extension through 2024. They were prepared for the possibility that Love may not be the answer they were looking for. The same Love that played backup for three years, leaving the franchise uncertain about his potential. The same Love that left doubts during the offseason. And now, the same Love that they are beginning to understand.
Let’s be clear: if the Packers still don’t know what Love is after three years as a backup and an entire offseason, then they know exactly what he isn’t—a long-term starter. Despite my previous support for Love, highlighting the lack of veteran support around him compared to Rodgers in his early years, this three-game losing streak has revealed his poor decision-making abilities. After all, he’s not a rookie anymore. He’s had plenty of mental preparation, multiple offseasons in the passing program, and years of preseason games under his belt. Yet, he consistently makes mistakes that suggest he’s still learning the nuances of playing quarterback at this level. This lack of progress, combined with his inconsistent ball placement and deep accuracy, only hinder the development of the young players around him.
Is it still possible for Love to turn things around? Absolutely. We’ve seen quarterbacks find their rhythm in the latter half of a season, gaining enough momentum to deter management from altering their plans. But time is running out for Love. Going into his fifth season, hoping for a sudden breakthrough would be negligent on the part of the Packers’ front office and coaching staff. Especially considering the past five games have exposed the true colors of both Love and the team.
The Packers have a 2-4 record, with their only convincing win against the struggling Chicago Bears. Now they face a challenging six-game stretch against teams with better records or superior offensive talent and quarterbacks. It’s highly likely that the Packers will enter mid-December with a 2-10 record, putting them in a prime position to secure a top pick in the upcoming draft, which features two highly touted quarterbacks. Once that happens, the conversation will shift towards possibly replacing Love with one of these prospects. The chorus calling for Love’s removal will grow louder if his performance continues to decline. He has 11 games left to change the narrative, just as he had three years prior to this season. If he fails to do so, the Packers will have no choice but to move on from him.
The question is, if not now, when? The answer is likely never. And unlike their starting quarterback, the Packers won’t miss their chance for change.
