Green Bay Packers schedule quirk could see them gamble on fitness of key player

The Green Bay Packers are sweating over the fitness of their star QB Jordan Love, who has been making positive steps towards full fitness ahead of a tough Week 9 tie against the Detriot Lions.

However, a curious schedule quirk could see them take a plunge on his fitness and push him into the fast-lane...

What injury does Jordan Love have?

Jordan Love is currently making his way through a specialised recovery plan in the Packers physio room, after suffering a knee injury in Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles. He returned to action in Green Bay’s 30-27 Week 8 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, only to retire early in the third quarter after a groin issue saw him take to the turf.

He was quickly removed from the field of play and since then, fans have been sweating over his fitness.

It seems, however, that the former physical issue is the one keeping him listed as ‘questionable’ ahead of the Week 9 game against the Lions.

Love didn’t take part in practice on Wednesday but did manage a run out on Thursday, when he was seen participating in some drills.

This situation, until now, all seems quite normal: player is injured and their participation is in doubt. However, a huge, floating question mark in the shape of a bye week is bobbing on the horizon, meaning that the Packers have two options: allow him 2 weeks off of push Love through, playing him against the Lions in the knowledge that there is a ‘free week’ of rest? As Miriah Carey said, Love Takes Time, but the curious schedule quirk could well play into the Packers' favour - let’s see what is their Vision of Love.

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It’s not known whether or not Green Bay will push him through the injury and then given him the week of rest, or play it safe and have him sit out until he is fully Healthy. As for the player himself, he certainly did not rule out the possibility: “I think it’s realistic,” Love responded when asked whether he would be able to play.

If Love is unable to play, backup Malik Willis will make his third start of the season. “I’m just enjoying the ride and taking it one game at a time, one week at a time, one day at a time,” Willis said. “That’s it.” The Packers take on the Lions on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at 4:25 p.m. ET.