Packers' Love cleared from concussion, Tune to start against eliminated Vikings
The Green Bay Packers will start Clayton Tune at quarterback for their regular-season finale against the Minnesota Vikings, while Jordan Love serves as a backup after recovering from a concussion.
Why it matters: This decision highlights the Packers’ approach to evaluate young talent as they prepare for the playoffs, while also considering the health and future of Jordan Love.
- The Packers (9-6-1) have secured the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs and are gearing up for a wild-card matchup against either the Chicago Bears or the Philadelphia Eagles.
- With the Vikings eliminated from playoff contention, the game presents an opportunity for both teams to assess their rosters.
What’s new: Tune, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, will make his second career start after a challenging debut.
- In his first start against the Cleveland Browns, Tune struggled significantly, completing only 11 of 20 passes for 58 yards and committing three turnovers in a lopsided 27-0 defeat.
- His performance will be critical in understanding his potential within the Packers' offensive scheme moving forward.
Yes, but: While Tune's opportunity is significant, the team's decision to keep Love on the sidelines raises questions about his development and readiness.
- Matt LaFleur, head coach of the Packers, indicated that although Love has cleared concussion protocol, “the intent...is not to play him" in this game.
- This cautious approach suggests that the Packers may prioritize Love's long-term health over immediate game experience.
What to watch: Tune's performance could shape the Packers' quarterback strategy heading into the postseason.
- If he performs well, it could lead to increased confidence in his abilities, which would be crucial should the team face injuries in the playoffs.
- Conversely, a disappointing outing might reinforce the need for the Packers to consider other options in the offseason.
Between the lines: The Packers decision reflects a broader trend in the NFL where teams are increasingly willing to give rookie quarterbacks opportunities, even in non-playoff scenarios.
- By allowing Tune to start, the Packers are not only evaluating him but also preserving Love's health for a potentially decisive playoff run.
- This strategy enables them to assess all available options at quarterback without compromising their playoff aspirations.
The bottom line: As the Packers prepare for the postseason, the focus will be on how well Tune can lead the offense and whether Love's recovery will position him as a key player in their playoff journey.
