Running backs Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon of the Green Bay Packers are expressing their confidence in new starting quarterback Jordan Love. The Packers selected Love in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft after he spent three seasons learning from Aaron Rodgers, who was traded to the New York Jets this offseason.
Although Love has only one career start under his belt, going 19-of-34 for 190 yards with one touchdown and one interception in a close 13-7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021, both Jones and Dillon believe he has made significant progress since then. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano, Jones mentioned that Love now has a more open playbook and has grown as a player.
Dillon also agreed with Jones' assessment, stating that the team has fully embraced Love as their starting quarterback since Rodgers' departure and the beginning of training camp. He expressed excitement about being part of the first team to play alongside Love, believing that Love will have a successful career.
The Packers' decision to trade Rodgers was likely influenced by the need to assess Love's potential, as his contract only extends through 2024. With the preseason opener against the Cincinnati Bengals approaching, Love will have his first opportunity to lead the team as an undisputed starter with no looming competition behind him.
Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur suggested that Love will see playing time in the upcoming game against the Bengals, indicating that there is a "pretty good chance" the starters will be on the field "in some capacity." This presents a crucial moment for Love to showcase his skills.
Replacing a quarterback like Rodgers, who achieved numerous accolades during his 18 seasons with the Packers, is undoubtedly a daunting task for Love. However, history has shown that the Packers have successfully transitioned quarterbacks before, as Rodgers himself replaced Brett Favre.
The praise from Jones and Dillon reflects the team's confidence in Love's abilities and their readiness to support him as he takes on this new role. As the Packers embark on a new era, all eyes will be on Love as he strives to make his mark in the NFL.
