In an electrifying turn of events, the Green Bay Packers have promoted their backup quarterback, Malik Willis, to the starting role, pending the return of Jordan Love from a knee injury. This news comes in the wake of Love’s unfortunate setback, diagnosed with a sprained medial collateral ligament, sustained during a heart-wrenching 34-29 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Friday night.
Head Coach Matt LaFleur provided some glimmers of hope for Packers fans, stating that Love is being evaluated “day by day” and will not be placed on injured reserve. This decision hints at a potential return for Love before the IR-mandated four-week hiatus.
“First of all, you have to get the green light. Until you get that, those conversations won’t happen,” LaFleur commented. “We’re never going to put you in a position where you’re going to mortgage the short-term for the future.”
As Malik Willis steps up, he carries the weight of recent history and high expectations on his shoulders. The former Tennessee Titans quarterback, who was acquired just last month, now stands as the No. 1 quarterback heading into Week 2. Filling in behind him will be Sean Clifford, who will assume the backup role against the Colts.
LaFleur emphasized that there are no doubts about Willis’ preparedness. “He’ll know the game plan 100 percent,” LaFleur asserted, brimming with confidence in his newly-minted starter.
Willis, at 25 years old, brings a compact yet potent resume to the table. In the 2024 preseason with the Titans, he logged 101 yards on 11 carries, showcasing his dual-threat capability. Over his first two NFL seasons, Willis completed 35 of 66 passes for 350 yards, with three interceptions. On the ground, he amassed 144 yards on 32 attempts, scoring once. These stats set a foundation for what could be a breakthrough moment for Willis in Green Bay.
