“Urgency Rises for Packers to Secure Tannehill as Vikings Eye QB Shake-Up After McCarthy Injury”
JJ McCarthy’s season-ending injury will have a substantial effect on the NFC North this year, and it might compel the Green Bay Packers to adjust their immediate plans.
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, McCarthy is set to miss his entire rookie season, which leaves the Vikings’ starting quarterback role to Sam Darnold for the year. This could prompt Minnesota to seek a short-term alternative to challenge Darnold.
This is where the Packers come into play.
Jordan Love is a standout, but what if he’s sidelined for a game or two? Sean Clifford is currently the backup, but with only one career pass and a tendency to throw interceptions during training camp, his readiness is questionable. Seventh-round rookie Michael Pratt is closing in on the backup role, but it’s unclear if he’s ready for that level of responsibility. Pratt might benefit from a year of development on the practice squad.
If Clifford isn’t the solution, the Packers may have to look for a veteran option.
The Packers should consider signing Ryan Tannehill before the Vikings get the chance.
Unlike last year, the Packers are in a win-now mindset. They need reliable quarterback coverage in case Love faces a short-term injury. While a serious injury to Love would likely end any Super Bowl aspirations, a dependable veteran could keep the team competitive in his absence.
Tannehill, a former Pro Bowler, is still available and would be an ideal veteran backup for Love. Although he’s entering his 36th season and isn’t the same player he once was, Tannehill could effectively manage a few games and distribute the ball to the Packers’ playmakers.
With McCarthy’s injury, the urgency to act is even greater. Tannehill is the best free-agent quarterback on the market and could provide the Vikings with an upgrade over Darnold as their starter.
Tannehill might prefer a team where he could be the starter, and Minnesota is one of the few realistic options. However, Green Bay could entice him with the opportunity to join one of the league’s most dynamic rosters and the possibility of a deep playoff run.
Beyond Tannehill, there are few veteran quarterback options available. The Packers may need to move quickly before the Vikings make their move.