Entering the 2025 season, there are many checklist items that the Packers will look to cross off in order to have success. The one item that played a larger factor than some might think in 2024 is the health of Jordan Love. Unfortunately, Love dealt with three different injuries throughout the season. The key to a strong Packers 2025 season, especially for the offense, is to keep Jordan Love upright.
After the season ended, Love told the media that his knee injury, which he suffered in the Week 1 loss to the Eagles, never fully healed. Later on, Love tweaked his groin against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He did not return to that game. Finally, in the last regular season game, Love hit his throwing elbow on the crown of a Chicago Bears helmet. Love also did not return in that game.
After reviewing his overall play in 2024, it was quite clear that Jordan Love was playing through the knee and the groin injuries. Love will not admit to what extent those injuries bothered him but it was evident that he was not playing as fearlessly as he normally does. Love seemed hesitant to use his lower body when he threw ball. He wasn’t as comfortable moving around in the pocket as well as escaping the pocket. This affected the level of execution on the offensive side of the ball.
Packers Offense Can Fly With a Healthy Jordan Love
The most notable difference between the 2023 Packers offense and the 2024 Packers offense was the usage of the play action pass. At the end of the season, LaFleur told that media that the Packers were more effective running the football from the shotgun than under center. Although, that might be true, Love’s mobility struggles must have played a factor.
When Jordan Love is healthy and can move like he wants, than all options are on the table for the offense. If the effective running game from the shotgun formation continues in 2025, increasing the usage of the under center play action pass is just another tool at LaFleur’s disposal. The offseason roster additions indicate that the Packers want to make it easier for Love. Brian Gutekunst added size and versatility to the offense line as well as two fast, physical wide receivers.
It is clear the Packers know Love’s health will be a major factor. Bolstering the offensive line and adding play making options will decrease the chances of Love taking hits. The less time Love has with the ball whether that is getting it out quicker, the offensive line creating cleaner pockets for Love to make his reads, or a strong running game, the healthier he will be. This factor will lead to a better, more potent offense.
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