By Avnish Singh 
Green Bay Packers fans were surprised when the injury report for Week 2 listed quarterback Jordan Love as “questionable” for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. Love, who suffered a sprained MCL in his left knee during Week 1, had been expected to miss multiple games. However, the Packers have left the door open for his possible return this weekend.
Love’s Injury: A Setback in Week 1
Jordan Love sustained his injury during Green Bay’s season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles in Brazil. The injury occurred in the final moments of the game, with just six seconds left in the Packers’ 34-29 loss. Love finished the game with a 17-for-34 passing performance, accumulating 260 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
Since then, Love has not practiced, but Packers head coach Matt LaFleur has remained optimistic about his recovery. “He’s doing good,” LaFleur told reporters on Friday. “He’s got a great attitude, and he’s working hard and getting better every day.” Despite Love’s efforts, he has not yet been medically cleared to play.
The Injury Report: Love Listed as “Questionable”
Though Love didn’t practice throughout the week, the Packers listed him as “questionable” rather than ruling him out for Sunday’s game. This has left fans wondering if Love might make an unexpected appearance against the Colts. The team plans to wait until 90 minutes before kickoff to announce the official list of inactive players.
Malik Willis, who was acquired from the Tennessee Titans last month, is currently the expected starter if Love cannot play. Willis served as the backup quarterback in Week 1, and his experience from last season gives the Packers a viable option in Love’s absence.
Additional Injury Concerns for Green Bay
The Packers have more than just Love’s status to worry about. Wide receiver Jayden Reed and rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd were both added to the injury report on Friday. Reed, dealing with calf and shin issues, and Lloyd, nursing a hamstring injury, are also listed as questionable for Sunday’s game.
Reed had an impressive performance in Week 1 against the Eagles, catching four passes for 138 yards and scoring two touchdowns—one on a 70-yard reception and the other on a 33-yard run. His explosive playmaking ability would be sorely missed if he cannot play against the Colts. Meanwhile, Lloyd did not play in the opener due to his hamstring injury, and his status remains uncertain heading into Week 2.
Packers’ Options Without Love: Malik Willis Steps In
With Jordan Love’s status uncertain, the Packers may need to turn to Malik Willis as their starting quarterback for Week 2. Willis, who was acquired via trade just before the season began, brings some experience to the table. He started three games as a rookie with the Tennessee Titans in 2022 and was expected to serve as Love’s backup for the 2023 season.
Willis is known for his mobility and ability to make plays with his legs, which could bring a different dynamic to the Packers’ offense. While he’s still getting acclimated to Green Bay’s system, he’s shown potential and has the confidence of his coaches.
Head Coach Matt LaFleur’s Approach
Coach Matt LaFleur has been cautious yet optimistic about Love’s recovery. When asked about placing Love on injured reserve (IR), which would guarantee he misses at least four games, LaFleur was hesitant. “We’re taking it day by day,” LaFleur said earlier in the week, suggesting the team is hopeful Love could return sooner rather than later.
"I was shocked to see Matt LeFleur say 'he could play even this week'… I'd be very surprised if he's cleared to play."
— Maggie and Perloff (@MaggieandPerl) September 12, 2024
Former Packers executive @AndrewBrandt gives his insight on Green Bay's approach to Jordon Love's MCL injury pic.twitter.com/NYN1luqNtZ
LaFleur’s approach to the situation reflects the importance of having Love under center for as many games as possible this season. The Packers see Love as their quarterback of the future, and they want to ensure he’s fully recovered before returning to the field.
Looking Ahead: Will Love Play?
With Jordan Love listed as questionable, Packers fans will have to wait until Sunday for an official decision. If Love is cleared to play, it would mark a significant moment for Green Bay, as their young quarterback would have an opportunity to bounce back from the Week 1 loss and lead the team against the Colts.
However, if Love is unable to go, Malik Willis will take the reins, and the Packers will rely on him to manage the offense in Love’s absence.
Packers’ Key Matchup Against the Colts
Regardless of who starts at quarterback, the Packers face a tough matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts have a strong defensive front, and Green Bay will need to protect their quarterback—whether it’s Love or Willis—if they want to secure a victory.
In addition to the quarterback situation, the Packers will be closely monitoring the health of Jayden Reed and MarShawn Lloyd. Their availability could play a crucial role in the game’s outcome, especially with Reed’s ability to stretch the field and create big plays.
The Green Bay Packers enter Week 2 with several key players listed as questionable, including quarterback Jordan Love. While Love’s return would undoubtedly provide a boost to the team, the Packers must be cautious not to rush him back too soon. Malik Willis is prepared to step in if needed, and Green Bay’s coaching staff remains hopeful that Love’s recovery will continue to progress.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting the final injury report on Sunday to see if Love will make his return or if Willis will get the nod to start.
