The Green Bay Packers do not have to search for a starting quarterback this offseason, but Jordan Love’s lingering injury concerns over the past two years make the backup role an important priority. With Malik Willis no longer in that spot, the franchise faces a notable roster need it must handle carefully.
Head coach Matt LaFleur elevated Malik Willis’ value and showcased his potential. Green Bay traded a seventh round pick for the former third round selection two years ago, and LaFleur’s system helped position him as one of the most sought after quarterbacks entering free agency later this month. If the market unfolds as expected, Willis could command the highest salary among available quarterbacks.
LaFleur and the Packers’ offense could likely unlock similar upside in a player like Anthony Richardson. However, the former No. 4 overall pick from 2023 is probably searching for a situation that offers a clear path to start or at least compete for the QB1 job, an opportunity he would not have in Green Bay.
The 2026 quarterback market could push the Packers toward a different type of backup. Instead of signing a young passer intent on rebuilding his value before chasing a starting job elsewhere, Green Bay may find that a seasoned veteran past his prime offers the most practical solution at QB2.
Jimmy Garoppolo’s fit with Jordan Love and the Packers
Oct 26, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) warms up prior to the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler floated Jimmy Garoppolo as a possible option behind Jordan Love in Green Bay. Garoppolo currently serves as the backup for the Los Angeles Rams and previously started in a Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2018 season, making him an experienced candidate if the Packers pursue a veteran presence at QB2.
“Free agent Jimmy Garoppolo heading to Arizona is a strong option, too,” Fowler wrote in his article. “Something to keep in mind with Garoppolo: He has one of the league’s best QB2 jobs with the Rams, who would welcome him back. Joining Green Bay as a No. 2 is also an option.”
Garoppolo turns 35 in November and has built a 12 year NFL career with significant starting experience. The former second round selection has not collected All Pro or Pro Bowl recognition, but he has produced consistently when on the field.
Sep 21, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (11) runs off the field against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Over 85 career games, including 64 starts, he has thrown for nearly 16,000 yards while completing 67.4 percent of his passes, totaling 96 touchdowns and 52 interceptions. He has also compiled a strong 43-21 record as a starter.
The Rams paid Garoppolo a little more than $3 million last season to back up MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford. Looking ahead, Spotrac estimates his 2026 market value at approximately $2.35 million.