As training camp started this week, the Packers added to their depth chart by signing NFL journeyman quarterback Jacob Eason.
The move was necessary just for an extra body. Jordan Love, for the second straight day, skipped training camp as he awaits a new contract.
To make room for Eason, the Packers released deep snapper Peter Bowden, who was an undrafted free agent.
Love is in line for a new deal that could make him the highest-paid quarterback in the NFL. The number to shoot for is anything worth more than $55 million a year. Although Love only has been a starter for the Packers for a season, he benefits from a quarterback market that’s constantly resetting. Joe Burrow will make $55 million this season. Then Trevor Lawrence, who signed a new contract earlier this summer, will earn $55 million in 2025.
The Packers’ second-string quarterback last year was Sean Clifford. is the primary backup. Green Bay drafted Tulane star Michael Pratt in the seventh round of April’s draft. Meanwhile, the team also moved Alex McGough from quarterback to receiver in early May. However, the Packers placed McGough on injured reserve last week.
The Packers brought in Eason in early May for a tryout. Eason started his career with the Colts as a fourth-round draft pick in 2020. He’s done two stints with the Panthers with stops in Seattle and San Francisco. Before the Packers, he spent part of last season with the Giants.
Before he was drafted Eason played for both Georgia and Washington. Eason spent his first two seasons with the Bulldogs. He injured his knee early in his sophomore season, causing him to lose his starting job to Jake Fromm. He then transferred to Washington.
It’s unclear whether Eason’s time will be limited once Love returns to the practice field for the Packers. Green Bay general manager Brian Gutekunst told reporters on Monday that sides were close in contract negotiations.
“We’re working really hard to get that done,” Gutekunst said. “I think it’s really important for us. At the same time, the thing that I have confidence in is that we both want the same thing. We want Jordan here for a long time, give him that stability for him, and it gives us some stability for our group as well. … I’m optimistic. These are big deals. It takes time. They’re not as easy as some people may think. …
“I feel we’re close, but no real timetables as far as how long it’s going to take.”
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