When Jordan Love went down late in the Green Bay Packers’ season opener, there were concerns he might be sidelined for an extended period. Fortunately, he is set to return just in time for an NFC North game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Love, who signed a four-year, $220 million contract extension during the offseason, was injured during the final moments of the Packers’ 34-29 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil. As he was tackled by Josh Sweat and Carter, his left knee appeared to pop inward.
Thankfully, Love suffered no tears and was diagnosed with an MCL sprain. He returned to practice soon after, though he missed the Packers’ 16-10 victory over the Indianapolis Colts and last week’s 30-14 win against the Tennessee Titans. Malik Willis started in his absence and performed well despite limited playing time in his first two seasons.
With the Packers set to face an undefeated NFC North rival, Love will be starting against the Vikings, but the team is taking precautions for his return.
“#Packers QB Jordan Love is expected to wear a brace on his left knee today against the #Vikings — his first start since suffering an MCL sprain in the Sept. 8 opener,” NFL insider Tom Pelissero stated on X, formerly Twitter.
“Sources say Love took the majority of practice reps and looked better and better as the week went on. Go time.”
Last season, Love surprised many with a strong performance as Green Bay’s starting quarterback. After being the 26th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft and sitting behind Aaron Rodgers for two years, he finally got his chance. With Rodgers now with the New York Jets, Love demonstrated his potential as a long-term option, completing 64.2% of his passes for 4,159 yards (seventh-most in the NFL), 32 touchdowns (second-most), and 11 interceptions, leading the Packers to the NFC Divisional Round.
In Week 1 against the Eagles, Love recorded 260 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception.
