Packers Training Camp: Backup Battle Heats Up

The Green Bay Packers kickoff training camp on Wednesday, July 29, officially ushering in preparations for the 2026 season. After three consecutive playoff runs that all ended in early exits, the franchise is eager to break the postseason drought this fall. July 29 marks the day the roster will begin its full‑throttle push toward that goal.

Current Quarterback Depth Chart

• Jordan Love – The 2020 first‑round pick is now the established starter entering his fourth NFL season. His 2025 campaign was marked by high efficiency, though questions linger about his performance when pressured.
• Tyrod Taylor – The 36‑year‑old journeyman arrives as the expected heir apparent to the backup role. Taylor spent the previous year with the New York Jets under offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, a background that may ease his transition to Matt LaFleur’s playbook.
• Kyle McCord – The former Eagle signed a futures deal in January after a productive 2025 draft. A five‑star recruit from Virginia Tech, McCord set ACC single‑season passing records with 4,779 yards and broke Syracuse’s season benchmarks for completions, yards and touchdowns.
• Kyron Drones – An undrafted rookie who impressed scouts with his size and athleticism. Drones is viewed as a raw passer, similar in physique to former Packers backup Malik Willis, but still needs considerable development.

Who Will Fill the Backup Role?

Matt LaFleur’s staff is reshaping the quarterback room after losing three promising arms—Malik Willis, Clayton Tune and Desmond Ridder—who previously provided depth and experience. With the emergence of Taylor, the Packers now have a veteran presence, yet he is no longer considered a viable starter. The competition for the third‑string spot is expected to be fluid, with Drones’ dual‑threat upside and McCord’s tape from a single season with Philadelphia both on the radar.

If neither young signal‑caller proves ready for the practice squad, the franchise will likely look elsewhere to add a developmental quarterback. Drones’ unique skill set could give Green Bay an occasional roster‑flex option, while McCord’s football IQ suggests a possible long‑term backup role, provided he can earn a spot and stay healthy.

Will Taylor Be Trusted to Run the Offense?

Malik Willis proved capable of stepping in and keeping the offense upright during Love’s absences. Now destined for the Miami Dolphins, his departure leaves a void that Tyrod Taylor is tasked to fill. Taylor’s season with the Jets under a previously successful offensive coordinator may smooth his acclimation to LaFleur’s schemes, but he must still demonstrate he can manage the playbook and perform well under extended pressure.

Success for Taylor hinges on his ability to execute game‑management duties and deliver winning plays if forced into a featured role. A strong camp showing could lock in his backup status, while lapses might force the Packers to bring in another quarterback.

Love’s Performance Under Pressure

Jordan Love thrived in clean pockets during the 2025 season, but his statistics dipped when the line was compromised. Green Bay’s offensive line struggled to protect him, forcing him into difficult positions more often than desired. Even if the line improves, Love will need to rediscover the agility that made him a potential MVP candidate when plays break down.

Camp drills will offer a glimpse of his ability to create lanes and extend plays under rush, though the risk of actual hits is minimal. Tracking his reaction times and decision‑making in pressure scenarios will be essential for evaluating his 2026 prospects.

Rising Star to Watch: Kyle McCord

While Kyron Drones will capture much of the spotlight, the young quarterback slated for a futures contract is also worth monitoring. McCord’s passing numbers from his final college season set ACC and Syracuse records, highlighting his arm talent and football IQ. Though his physical tools may be average, his experience could fast‑track him to a reliable backup role by 2027 if he can stick on the practice squad and absorb LaFleur’s system.

A solid summer performance could position him as Love’s heir apparent, turning a developmental project into a future asset for the Packers’ quarterback room.