Jordan Love Injury Update: Packers QB Expected Back Before Week 1

Jordan Love Injury Update: Packers QB Expected Back Before Week 1

Thumb Injury Sends a Scare Through Green Bay

The Green Bay Packers got an injury scare less than a month before the 2025 NFL season kicks off — but it looks like their starting quarterback will be fine in time for the opener.

Brian Gutekunst, the general manager, said on Tuesday that Jordan Love hurt a ligament in his left (non-throwing) thumb during Saturday’s preseason game against the New York Jets.. The injury occurred when Love tried to escape the pocket and hit the side of Jets defensive tackle Jay Tufele’s helmet during a sack in the first quarter. It turned out to be his final play of the game.

Surgery Scheduled, Quick Recovery Expected

Love was spotted with his thumb taped at Monday’s practice but didn’t miss any snaps. Now, he’ll undergo surgery — scheduled for Tuesday — to repair the injury.

According to Gutekunst and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the recovery should be fast, with Love expected to return to practice next week and be ready for Week 1.

“He shouldn’t miss any regular-season time,” Gutekunst said, adding that the team doesn’t see this as a long-term concern.
Head coach Matt LaFleur echoed this, calling it a “relatively quick recovery.”

Impact of the Non-Throwing Hand Injury

Because the injury is to his non-throwing hand, the main challenge upon his return may be handling snaps under center. Otherwise, he avoided what could have been a lingering or season-impacting problem.

Malik Willis Steps In as QB1 for Now

While Love recovers, Malik Willis will take over first-team reps. The 26-year-old — acquired from the Tennessee Titans before the 2024 season — went 2-0 as a starter last year, completing 74.1% of his passes for 550 yards and three touchdowns, plus 138 rushing yards and a rushing score.

Behind Willis are Sean Clifford, a former Penn State standout, and Taylor Elgersma, a Canadian university product.

Looking Ahead to Week 1

The Packers plan to ease Love back into practice and monitor his progress leading up to the season opener. The ultimate goal is simple — get him healthy and ready for Week 1.