On the Verge of Return: Green Bay Packers’ Jordan Love

For the second consecutive week, the Green Bay Packers have categorized their star player, Jordan Love, as ‘questionable’ on their injury report. However, unlike the previous week, Love is unlikely to be downgraded to ‘doubtful’ this time around.

Love’s Comeback Journey

Last week, Love was absent from all practice sessions. This week, however, he participated in all three drills that took place from Wednesday to Friday, although in a limited capacity. Packers’ coach, Matt LaFleur, stated that they are willing to wait until the final 90 minutes before Sunday’s face-off against the Tennessee Titans, if that’s what it takes for Love to be declared fit to play.

When questioned post-Friday’s practice session about Love’s clearance for the game, LaFleur responded, “We’re working through that.” That’s the first step towards Love’s comeback since he sprained the MCL in his left knee during the season opener against the Eagles on September 6. However, medical clearance is not the only factor at play.

A Personal Decision for Love

“I think there’s definitely a lot that’s up to him,” LaFleur commented. “You don’t want to put somebody in that position, but certainly he’s doing everything in his power. He wants to be out there more than anybody. But we’ll work through it. We’ll give it up to game time and we’ll see where we’re at.”

Love’s Mental Preparedness

Love, during his first media interaction since his injury, spoke about the mental aspect of his return. He emphasized the importance of readiness and confidence, stating, “Yeah there’s definitely a lot of it that is mental and just trying to make sure your mind’s right for when you do get back and do get back on the field… I mean I do a good job just trying to make sure that I’m confident, confident in the rehab and everything I’m doing in there and the trainers and listening to them and just taking it day-by-day.”

Love’s Possible Return: Sooner Than Expected?

If Love takes the field against the Titans this Sunday, or even if he waits until Week 4 against the Vikings, his return will surpass the initial recovery timeframe reported after his injury during the game against the Eagles.

“He has to feel right physically in order to play,” said the Packers’ quarterbacks coach, Tom Clements. “In the NFL, usually after the first, second game, from that point on, a lot of guys have things they have to take care of in order to get ready to play at a high level that week.”

Last Week’s Performance Without Love

In Love’s absence last week, Malik Willis helmed the team to a 16-10 victory over the Colts. However, the game plan was heavily reliant on running, as Willis completed just 12 of 14 passes for a total of 122 yards and a single touchdown pass.