Navigating the Quarterback Depth Challenge
The Unexpected Gap in Quarterback Depth
The Green Bay Packers' decision to maintain only two quarterbacks on their active roster stands out, especially when half of the NFL carried three, and some even four, quarterbacks after the recent cutdown deadline. This move leaves the team without an immediate internal candidate for their practice squad, raising questions about their contingency plans should their primary or secondary quarterbacks become unavailable.
Revisiting a Familiar Face: Kyron Drones
One immediate possibility for the Packers is to bring back Kyron Drones, an undrafted free agent who previously signed with the team. However, Drones' earlier performance, including being outperformed by Kyle McCord (now with the Miami Dolphins) and a challenging preseason outing against the Pittsburgh Steelers, suggests this might be a less inspiring choice. His prior release indicates the team may have moved on from that particular avenue.
Exploring the Market: Recently Released Quarterbacks
A more dynamic approach involves scouting quarterbacks recently cut from other NFL teams. The landscape of available talent varies significantly:
Players from Teams with Ample Quarterback Depth: Quarterbacks like Kedon Slovis (ARZ), Austin Reed (BAL), Kyle Trask (CAR), Miller Moss (CHI), Easton Stick (IND), Jacob Clark (LV), Hunter Dekkers (NO), Adrian Martinez (SF), and Sam Hartman (WAS) are strong contenders. Their previous teams already rostered three or more quarterbacks, making it less likely they'll be retained for practice squads.
Candidates from Teams with Limited Quarterback Roster Spots: Players such as Nick Mullens and Joey Aguilar (JAX), Mark Gronowski and Cam Miller (MIA), Brandon Allen and Jake Haener (NYG), Bailey Zappe and Brady Cook (NYJ), and Will Levis and Hendon Hooker (TEN) come from teams that only kept two quarterbacks but released multiple. While their original teams might try to re-sign one, the other could become available.
Less Likely but Still Possible: Quarterbacks like Shane Buechele (BUF), Sean Clifford (CIN), Luke Altmyer (DET), Brett Rypien (HOU), DJ Uiagalelei (LAC), and Jake Browning and Connor Bazelak (TB) were often the sole release from teams maintaining only two quarterbacks. These players are more probable to return to their original clubs' practice squads.
Notably, potential targets like Mark Gronowski and Cam Miller from Miami, or even Will Levis and Hendon Hooker if they clear waivers from Tennessee, present intriguing options given their recent draft status or pre-draft interest from the Packers.
Considering Unsigned Talents: Street Free Agents
The Packers have also shown interest in "street signings," such as Seth Henigan, a 2025 undrafted free agent whom they worked out earlier in the offseason. While veteran quarterbacks like Jimmy Garoppolo are technically available, their interest in a practice squad role is highly improbable. Therefore, the team is unlikely to find a highly experienced third-stringer through this route.
The Strategic Imperative for a Third Quarterback
The absence of a third quarterback on the Packers' roster is a strategic anomaly. While Tyrod Taylor provides a solid backup, the potential for unforeseen injuries necessitates a deeper bench. The team faces a decision between a less experienced scout team arm for immediate needs or a more seasoned veteran if a critical injury were to occur. This choice will significantly impact their resilience throughout the season.
