Green Bay Packers Explore Backup QB Options: Garoppolo, Levis, Richardson, and Taylor on the Radar

The Green Bay Packers are actively looking to secure a reliable backup quarterback behind Jordan Love for the 2026 season, following the signing of Kirk Cousins by the Las Vegas Raiders. With the veteran passer off the market, head coach Matt LaFleur and general manager Brian Gutekunst appear focused on finding a quarterback who can provide both experience and depth, ensuring the team is prepared in case of injury or performance issues.

While the Packers could theoretically draft a signal-caller in the later rounds, the organization seems more likely to target a player with starting experience, either through free agency or a trade. LaFleur’s track record of resurrecting the careers of players like Malik Willis could make Green Bay an appealing landing spot for quarterbacks seeking to rebuild their stock. Let’s break down the most likely candidates.

1. Jimmy Garoppolo: The Experienced Fill-In

Jimmy Garoppolo has long been favored by coaches from the Shanahan coaching tree, known for his ability to efficiently execute complex offenses. Garoppolo could be an ideal stopgap starter or reliable backup, given his familiarity with play designs similar to those in Green Bay’s system.

Although the Los Angeles Rams reportedly want him back and the Arizona Cardinals, coached by Mike LaFleur, have also expressed interest, Green Bay could present a compelling offer for the 34-year-old QB. With Jordan Love having missed two starts in each of the last two seasons, meaningful playing time is likely.

However, Garoppolo is currently an unrestricted free agent, and Gutekunst may wait until after the 2026 NFL Draft to finalize a deal. This would avoid any impact on compensatory draft picks, preserving valuable future assets for the Packers.

2. Will Levis: High-Upside, Affordable Option

Will Levis could offer Green Bay upside at a lower cost. Levis, currently with the Tennessee Titans, struggled early in his career due to team circumstances. But his physical tools—arm strength and athleticism—remain impressive, and he enters a contract year with a manageable $3.036 million cap hit.

Levis would represent a riskier No. 2 option than Garoppolo, as he has yet to fully prove himself in a starting role. That said, the potential reward of a talented, inexpensive quarterback learning under LaFleur and playing behind Love could make him a worthwhile gamble.

3. Anthony Richardson: The Wild Card

The most intriguing candidate may be Anthony Richardson, whose physical talent surpasses even Malik Willis. Richardson’s raw skills make him a high-upside option for Green Bay, though his career numbers—67.8 passer rating, 50.6% completion rate, and 11-13 TD-INT over 17 games—highlight the risk involved.

Adding Richardson as a backup could be a calculated gamble, especially for a playoff-contending team like the Packers. While the fully guaranteed fifth-year option on his contract is unlikely to be exercised, the opportunity to learn under LaFleur and compete for playing time could make Green Bay an attractive destination for Richardson’s long-term development.

4. Tyrod Taylor: The Veteran Mentor

If Green Bay wants a low-risk option without sacrificing draft capital, Tyrod Taylor is another potential target. At 37, Taylor brings experience, leadership, and reliability, with a 13-8 TD-INT record, a 63.4% completion rate, and an 85.7 passer rating over 19 games in the last three seasons.

Taylor could serve as a short-term starter in a run-heavy offense, giving Jordan Love breathing room in case of injury. He could also provide mentorship to Love, helping him navigate the challenges of being a young starting quarterback in a high-pressure environment.

What the Packers Need

The Packers’ priority is clear: secure a quarterback who can start if necessary while mentoring Jordan Love. Whether through free agency or trade, the ideal candidate combines experience, familiarity with pro-style offenses, and the ability to contribute immediately.

Jimmy Garoppolo offers experience and reliability, Will Levis brings upside at a bargain, Anthony Richardson provides high-risk/high-reward talent, and Tyrod Taylor offers veteran leadership. Each option carries its own benefits and risks, and Gutekunst’s final decision will shape Green Bay’s quarterback depth for 2026.

Looking Ahead

The Packers are likely to evaluate these options closely after the 2026 NFL Draft, balancing draft capital, salary cap implications, and team needs. Fans can expect Green Bay to pursue a backup quarterback who not only provides security behind Jordan Love but also adds potential value to the roster.

With LaFleur’s proven ability to develop young quarterbacks and Gutekunst’s track record for strategic acquisitions, the Packers are positioning themselves to avoid a repeat of previous QB depth issues. Whether it’s Garoppolo’s polish, Levis’ upside, Richardson’s talent, or Taylor’s experience, Green Bay is committed to keeping Jordan Love protected and the team competitive.