NFL Rumors: Packers Jordan Love Out vs. Colts With Knee Injury; May return in 4 weeks

Although Jordan Love is not expected to play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, the Green Bay Packers could have their star quarterback back on the low end of projections after spraining his MCL.

According to Diana Russini of The Athletics, Sunday's game is “not happening” because he has not been medically cleared despite head coach Matt LaFleur keeping the door open for it.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Love was later downgraded to questionable for the game with Sean Clifford promoted from the practice squad to the active roster.

Russini added that Love's return in Week 3 is considered a “long shot” and that the most optimistic timeline would have him back in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings “if there are no issues” in his recovery.

Love suffered the injury during the Packers' final drive in their Week 1 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the initial timetable for Love's return is three to six weeks “with some initial optimism he could return sooner, pending a second opinion.”

LaFleur told reporters Monday that Love will not be placed on injured reserve, which would keep him out for at least four games. He also said Malik Willis would be the starter if Love is not allowed to play, with Sean Clifford as the backup.

The Packers officially listed Love as questionable for Sunday even though he hasn't practiced at all this week.

LaFleur said Wednesday that Love doesn't need to practice to be available against the Colts, but he needs to be medically cleared and able to protect himself from further injury.

“We have to feel like he can defend himself,” LaFleur explained. “He's got to be confident enough to go out there and do it. Until that happens, we're not even going to think about it.”

Willis was acquired by the Packers on August 26 in a trade with the Tennessee Titans. The 25-year-old started three games for the Titans in 2022.

The Packers are looking to avoid their first 0-2 start since 2006.