Going into the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the Packers were expected to fill holes at wide receiver and inside linebacker. However, in a surprise move, they traded up four spots to select quarterback Jordan Love from Utah State. The last time the Packers drafted a quarterback in the first round was in 2005, when Aaron Rodgers fell to the Pack at Pick 24.
The Packers, of course, were one game away from the Super Bowl last season. Many believe that as Rodgers is in his late-30’s, the team should surround him with as many pieces as possible and help him win one more ring. Rodgers himself has said that he plans on playing well into his 40’s. So what does this pick mean for the Packers?
Simply stated, this was a pick for the future. Rodgers has lost almost a full season to collar-bone injuries and had serious leg injuries in previous seasons that limited his production. The Packers have not had a decent backup quarterback since the Matt Flynn years. Of course, Rodgers could very well play for four or five more years at a high level. But what if he doesn’t?
In Jordan Love, the Packers are getting a raw quarterback with room to grow. His Prospect Grade was 6.36, meaning that he is projected to be a good starter in two or three years. This time frame gives the Packers time to win another Super Bowl with Rodgers while also developing his possible replacement.
In 2019, Love had a kind of down year after a coaching change at Utah State. However, in 2018, Love threw for 3,567 yards with 32 touchdowns and just six interceptions. He also is known for his above-average arm strength and has the potential to make many Aaron Rodgers-like throws. He does, however, need to improve on his deep ball accuracy and not fumbling off-target snaps. A couple years learning from one of the best to ever do it will certainly help him in those areas.
For More Sports Coverage
Follow me on Twitter at @MrAdams88 and follow us @OTHWisconsin for more great content. Also, be sure to check out the Overtime Heroics Forums page to join in on the discussion. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in Wisconsin sports, click here!
