Packers GM wants to see Jordan Love get more reps in 2021

At 37-years-old, Aaron Rodgers' time in the NFL is closer to the end than the beginning. The Green Bay Packers moved up in the 2020 draft to select Jordan Love as their quarterback of the future, but he didn't even serve as Rodgers' top backup last season. 

Love didn't get much experience with no preseason games due to COVID-19 and Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst is hoping he'll have more opportunities to develop in 2021. 

"I think it's very important for Jordan to get as many live reps [as possible] — and that's not just him but all young players, specifically quarterbacks," Gutekunst said during his Tuesday press conference, according to Pro Football Talk. "If that does transpire where we get to the three preseason games, I think prior to last year, I would've told you that wasn't going to concern me as much. But after going through a season without preseason games, I realize how valuable and important that they are.

"With Jordan specifically, yeah, it was disappointing we weren't able to get him out there in the preseason this year. Looking forward to it this year. The more the better. Guys get better through playing. Practice is always important, but the live-game reps for all players is something you can't replace."

Tim Boyle served as Rodgers' backup last season and he'll be a free agent when the new league year begins this month. It appears the Packers expect Love to take a step forward, so it seems like he'll back up Rodgers in 2021.

Love spent three seasons at Utah State and his 2018 sophomore season with the Aggies was actually his best. The 22-year-old completed 64% of his passes for 3,567 yards and 32 touchdowns against six interceptions. He also ran for 63 yards and seven TDs.