Green Bay Packers training camp continues to test the team’s depth as injuries mount for players expected to play big roles this season.
Quarterback Jordan Love is back taking snaps under center for the first time since his thumb surgery, a hopeful sign as the Packers pace toward the Sept. 7 season opener against the Detroit Lions. However, questions remain about the health of a few starters before Week 1.
Receiver Jayden Reed (foot) and cornerback Nate Hobbs (knee) have missed significant practice time. Reed sprained his foot and spent time in a walking boot, while Hobbs underwent surgery to repair a partial meniscus tear earlier this month. General manager Brian Gutekunst said he’s “very hopeful” Reed and Hobbs will be ready for the opener and noted they’re trending in the right direction, though the team will monitor their progresses.
Here are some other key takeaways from Gutekunst’s August 27 news conference:
Exploring options for QB3
With Jordan Love and Malik Willis forming the top two behind center, Green Bay is actively looking for a third quarterback. The team released Sean Clifford and Taylor Elgersma, and neither joined the practice squad. Rumors surrounding the move pointed to the Packers signing Clayton Tune, the fifth-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in 2023, as a potential addition to the competition for the third spot. Gutekunst indicated the team wants a quarterback who can bring a bit more development and experience to the role while still progressing with the organization.
Bo Melton earns a roster spot at corner
One of the standout stories of camp was Bo Melton, a receiver who shifted to cornerback and earned a place on the 53-man roster. Coming from a position with little meaningful game experience at corner since high school, Melton surprised many with how quickly he picked up the new role. Gutekunst praised his mental approach and steady progress, noting there were few moments where it looked like a “fish out of water,” and that he consistently stacked day after day.
Outlook
As Love continues to regain full comfort with his thumb, the team’s surrounding health and depth are gradually taking shape. The addition of Tune could provide valuable competition for the third quarterback role and insurance behind Love and Willis, while Melton’s unlikely transition underscores the Packers’ willingness to experiment to maximize roster flexibility. If Reed and Hobbs continue on their current trajectories, Green Bay could be nearing a solid balance of readiness and upside as the season approaches.
Summary
The Packers are balancing encouraging signs from Love’s return with ongoing questions about weaponry and secondary depth, while making creative roster moves to strengthen the QB corps and defensive backfield. The upcoming weeks will determine how quickly Reed, Hobbs, and the potential new addition at quarterback can contribute as Green Bay prepares for a pivotal Week 1.
Additional notes and context
– The club’s approach signals a broader strategy of maximizing versatility across positions, especially in the backfield and secondary, to offset injuries and build competition.
– If Tune joins, he offers a potential developmental path at quarterback behind Love, with the organization signaling a preference for a calculated, long-term fit rather than sticking with a safer but less dynamic option.