Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon knows what it takes to lead a team. The New England star has been in the NFL for eight seasons and has earned four trips to the Super Bowl. So when he says Packers quarterback Jordan Love has what it takes, you can probably put some value in it.
Judon got a close look at the quarterback as Green Bay and New England took part in joint practices this week. Love is now firmly the leader of the offense as the Packers enter the post-Aaron Rodgers era.
“He’s a good kid, very calm, composed,” Judon said, per Ryan Wood of PackersNews.com. “I think he’s going to be a great leader for this organization, a good player. We all can see the arm talent. He’s got some nice arm talent.”
The biggest knock against Love is his lack of playing time. He’s appeared in just 10 games and made just one start heading into the 2023 season. He’s thrown for 606 yards with three touchdowns and three interceptions.
Love did play well in Green Bay’s preseason opener against Cincinnati. He completed 7-of-10 passes for 46 yards and a touchdown. He also was not sacked in the game.
There are undoubtedly some question marks surrounding Love’s game. And, though he enters his fourth year in the league, he will likely experience some growing pains. But from a leadership standpoint? Judon says Love can manage that aspect.
The Packers and Patriots play their preseason contest on Saturday, Aug. 19. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET.
Jordan Love speaks on new leadership role
Before the joint practice and prior to the first preseason game, Love was asked about how his leadership role has changed with the team. He highlighted some of the big differences.
“It’s definitely changed,” Love said, per NFL Network. “I think a lot of it is being able to see some of the older guys, see Aaron, how he leads, and get a feel for how that is. Coming from college, you kind of have your own way of doing things and you get here and see someone else do it. So you kind of grow as a player right there and as a leader.”
Accepting that challenge serves as a big first step for Love. Now, it’s a matter of getting comfortable in his new role as the starting quarterback on gameday. How long will it take for him to settle in?
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