It hasn’t been the most picture-perfect start to Jordan Love’s NFL career.
The 2020 first round draft pick for the Green Bay Packers has had his fair-share of highs and lows.
Love didn’t ask to get thrown into the fire at a time when the franchise’s Hall of Fame quarterback already was disgruntled with the organization. And I’m sure he didn’t exactly enjoy being in the middle of the will-he/won’t-he drama of 12 returning to play for the Packers before last season.
Preparing to be the starter during the 2021 offseason, then staying ready as Rodgers’ backup during the year and eventually playing in the NFL’s loudest stadium against the defending AFC champions for his first career start wasn’t ideal for the former Utah State standout.
While his limited play on the field has drawn mixed reviews, one thing Packers fans can’t complain about is how he’s handled all of the situations.
Love has shown time and time again that he has the resolve of a starting quarterback in the league. He’s kept his head down and only been positive in tough spots.
Love said all the right things again on Tuesday at the second day of the Packers OTAs about Rodgers’ three-year contract extension he signed over the offseason.
“I was super happy for Aaron,” Love said. “Obviously the dude deserves it. Look at what he’s done the last two years. Personally, for me, it just means that I’m about to be a backup again for this year. That’s all I can control right now. I was happy for Aaron, but at the same time, it’s like ‘ah.’ You know?”
This year isn’t necessarily a make-or-break year for Love, but heading into the third year of his contract, it’s going to be important for him to show Packers’ brass his continued improvement in season three.
And Rodgers’ contract is admittedly more year-to-year than one that’s completely set-in-stone.
So, with Rodgers’ absence again at voluntary offseason workouts this week, Love will once again get first-team reps. Which makes practices that many league veterans find relatively meaningless still incredibly important to Love.
I’ll be excited to read about his progress and happy to see him succeed if (or when) he gets another opportunity.
Read More: OTAs still meaningful for Jordan Love