Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love was unable to finish Friday’s season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles after sustaining an apparent lower left leg injury with just 6 seconds remaining in their 34-29 loss in São Paulo.
Love required assistance to reach the sideline, and while he seemed to move a bit more steadily when walking to the locker room post-game, he still needed help from head athletic trainer Nate Weir and running back Josh Jacobs, who supported him under each arm.
When asked twice about Love’s condition in the postgame press conference, Coach Matt LaFleur simply responded, “I don’t know.”
Love did not address the media following the game. “We know the kind of person he is and how dedicated he is to everything,” said wide receiver Christian Watson. “Whatever the situation, he’ll push through, and we’ll get through it together.”
Love was attempting to lead the Packers on a final drive. After a 33-yard pass to Jayden Reed that moved them to their 49-yard line, Love dropped back to throw again but was hit by two Eagles defenders—defensive tackle Jalen Carter and linebacker Josh Sweat. As he went down, Love appeared to twist his leg, managing to flip the ball to Jacobs just before hitting the ground.
Malik Willis, recently traded to the Packers from the Tennessee Titans, stepped in for the final two plays after Love’s injury—an incomplete pass followed by a sack. The Packers’ only other quarterback under contract is Sean Clifford, last year’s backup, who was released in the final cuts but later re-signed to the practice squad.
Love’s injury came during his first regular-season game since inking a four-year, $220 million contract on July 26, making him the NFL’s highest-paid player. He saw limited action in the preseason, playing just three snaps in the opener and sitting out the final two exhibition games.
“That’s our franchise player right there,” said defensive lineman Kenny Clark. “Hopefully, he’ll be back next week and everything will be fine.”
Love ended the game completing 17 of 34 passes for 260 yards, throwing two touchdowns and one interception.
