As the 2026 NFL free agency period approaches, the Green Bay Packers are preparing for a significant change behind franchise quarterback Jordan Love. The anticipated departure of Malik Willis has created a clear need for a new backup quarterback — and a familiar veteran name is quickly emerging as a logical solution.

Malik Willis’ Imminent Exit from Green Bay

Willis arrived in Green Bay as a reclamation project following a trade with the Tennessee Titans. Initially viewed as developmental depth, he capitalized on limited opportunities when Love missed time due to injury. In a handful of starts, Willis showcased improved poise and athleticism, rebuilding his market value across the league.

According to Spotrac’s projections, Willis is now positioned to command a contract worth approximately $35.5 million per season — a staggering number for a player who entered Green Bay as a backup option. For the Packers, matching that price simply isn’t realistic. Committing that level of cap space to a QB2 would severely limit flexibility at other priority positions.

General manager Brian Gutekunst now faces a pivotal offseason task: identifying a cost-effective and system-compatible replacement behind Love.

Jimmy Garoppolo Linked as Packers Backup Target

One intriguing option gaining traction is veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler recently identified Garoppolo as a potential QB2 candidate for Green Bay, citing both scheme familiarity and financial feasibility.

Unlike Willis, Garoppolo is not expected to command a significant salary. Spotrac projects his next contract to average roughly $2.3 million annually — a fraction of Willis’ anticipated deal. That price tag makes him an attractive solution for a team looking to preserve cap space while maintaining stability at the most important position on the field.

Experience and Resume: What Garoppolo Brings to Green Bay

Garoppolo enters his 12th NFL season with a résumé few backup quarterbacks can match. During his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, he led the franchise to a 13-3 record in 2019 and a Super Bowl appearance. While injuries eventually cost him his starting job — paving the way for Brock Purdy — Garoppolo demonstrated he can operate efficiently within a structured offensive system.

After departing San Francisco, he spent time with the Las Vegas Raiders before landing with the Los Angeles Rams. Although his playing time over the past two seasons has been limited to four appearances and one start, his exposure to head coach Sean McVay’s offensive system could prove valuable in Green Bay.

Scheme Fit: The McVay-LaFleur Connection

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is a prominent member of the Sean McVay coaching tree. The offensive philosophy in Green Bay mirrors many of the Rams’ core principles — including heavy play-action usage, pre-snap motion, and timing-based route combinations.

Garoppolo’s experience in McVay’s scheme gives him a learning curve advantage compared to other backup candidates. He understands the terminology, the footwork, and the progression reads required in this style of offense.

There is, however, a potential wrinkle. LaFleur’s brother, Mike LaFleur, is reportedly seeking quarterback depth with the Arizona Cardinals. That connection could create competition for Garoppolo’s services. Even so, Green Bay arguably offers the more appealing situation.

Supporting Cast Makes Green Bay Attractive

From a roster standpoint, the Packers present an ideal landing spot for a veteran backup quarterback.

Jordan Love has firmly established himself as the franchise centerpiece, meaning Garoppolo would not face a quarterback controversy. Instead, he could focus on providing experienced insurance and mentorship.

Offensively, Green Bay boasts a strong supporting cast, including:

• Pro Bowl-caliber running back Josh Jacobs

• Explosive wide receiver Christian Watson

• Emerging tight end Tucker Kraft

The presence of a reliable ground game and dynamic pass-catching options reduces pressure on a backup quarterback should he be called upon.

For Garoppolo, joining a legitimate Super Bowl contender could be more appealing than competing for snaps on a rebuilding roster.

Financial Flexibility: A Key Factor for Gutekunst

Perhaps the most compelling reason for Green Bay to pursue Garoppolo is cost efficiency.

By avoiding a lucrative deal for Willis and signing Garoppolo at a modest rate, the Packers can redirect resources toward higher-priority needs — whether along the offensive line, in the secondary, or at pass rusher.

Additionally, signing Garoppolo would not require surrendering draft capital. In contrast to potential trade targets, this move would preserve valuable picks as Green Bay continues building long-term depth.

For a front office known for strategic cap management, this approach aligns with established organizational philosophy.

Why Moving On from Willis Makes Sense

While Willis performed admirably in relief duty, his projected market value exceeds what most teams allocate to a backup quarterback. Green Bay’s decision isn’t about talent — it’s about resource allocation.

Paying over $35 million annually for a non-starter could hinder the Packers’ championship window during Love’s prime years. Allowing Willis to test free agency while pivoting to a more affordable veteran option represents disciplined roster construction.

Final Outlook: Garoppolo as the Smart, Steady Choice

The Packers enter free agency with clarity at quarterback — Jordan Love is the unquestioned leader. The priority now is finding a dependable, experienced backup who can step in without disrupting offensive rhythm.

Jimmy Garoppolo checks several boxes:

• Extensive starting experience

• Familiarity with LaFleur’s offensive system

• Affordable contract projection

• Comfort operating within a run-heavy, play-action scheme

While competition from other teams is possible, Green Bay offers stability, structure, and championship potential.

If Brian Gutekunst executes this move, the Packers could seamlessly transition from Malik Willis to a proven veteran presence — strengthening their quarterback room without compromising financial flexibility.

In a league where depth at quarterback often determines postseason success, that kind of calculated decision-making could pay dividends when it matters most.