Packers Weigh Veteran Options as Backup QB Search Continues Behind Jordan Love

The Green Bay Packers enter the 2026 offseason still searching for a dependable backup quarterback behind Jordan Love, following the departure of Malik Willis to the Miami Dolphins in free agency. The move has left the organization reevaluating its depth chart at one of the league’s most important positions.

Earlier in the offseason, the Packers were reportedly among several teams interested in veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who ultimately signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a deal that included $20 million guaranteed. That decision removed one of the most experienced options from Green Bay’s list of potential targets.

With Cousins no longer available, the Packers are left weighing a combination of internal candidates and remaining free agents as they attempt to stabilize the quarterback room. The urgency is heightened by Love’s injury history, which has forced the team to rely on depth in recent seasons.

As the franchise evaluates its next step, the backup quarterback position has quickly become one of its most important offseason decisions.

1. Depth Concerns Drive Offseason Urgency

Green Bay’s current quarterback depth chart includes Desmond Ridder and Kyle McCord, though neither has established himself as a reliable NFL backup. Ridder did not appear in a game during the 2025 season, while McCord has yet to make his professional debut. The lack of proven production behind Love has raised concerns within the organization, particularly given the importance of quarterback stability in a competitive NFC landscape. Teams across the league increasingly rely on experienced backups to remain viable during injury stretches. Love himself has shown strong development as the starter, but durability remains a consideration after missing multiple games over the past two seasons. His absences have underscored the importance of having a steady and capable second option. That context has pushed Green Bay to explore veteran alternatives rather than relying solely on untested or inexperienced players.

2. Willis Departure and Cousins Miss Shape Market

The offseason shift began when Malik Willis departed for Miami, removing a versatile and familiar presence from the Packers’ quarterback room. Willis had provided stability when called upon and offered a dual-threat skill set that complemented Love’s playing style. In limited action during the 2025 season, Willis produced efficient numbers, including 422 passing yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also added 123 rushing yards and two rushing scores, reinforcing his value as a capable backup. Shortly after his departure, attention turned to Kirk Cousins as a potential replacement. According to reporting from Dianna Russini of The Athletic, multiple teams—including Green Bay, the Arizona Cardinals, and the Los Angeles Rams—expressed interest in the veteran quarterback. However, Cousins ultimately chose a deal with the Raiders, leaving the Packers to reassess their options and potentially pivot toward less conventional solutions.

3. Veteran Market Offers Alternatives for Green Bay

With Cousins off the board, Green Bay’s attention has shifted toward remaining veteran quarterbacks who could provide short-term stability. Among those still available are Tyrod Taylor, Russell Wilson, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Rush, and Teddy Bridgewater. One name that continues to surface as a logical fit is Tyrod Taylor, a seasoned backup with extensive starting experience across multiple franchises. Taylor has spent recent seasons with the New York Giants and New York Jets, offering steady production when called upon. While not viewed as a long-term answer, Taylor’s skill set—quick decision-making, mobility, and efficient passing—has allowed him to manage offenses effectively in relief roles. His ability to maintain structure in an offense is seen as particularly valuable for teams with young or developing starters. For Green Bay, the appeal lies in continuity and reliability. Taylor’s experience and playing style are considered a strong match for what the team values behind Love, especially given the importance of maintaining offensive consistency if the starter misses time.