The Green Bay Packers are still licking their wounds after a heartbreaking end to the 2025 season, but make no mistake - the focus in Titletown has already shifted to 2026. And if there’s one thing we know about this franchise, it’s that they don’t stay down for long.
Green Bay’s early playoff exit still stings. The Packers held a double-digit lead in the NFC Wild Card Round against division rival Chicago, only to watch Caleb Williams and the Bears storm back and steal the game. That loss didn’t just end Green Bay’s season - it handed Chicago bragging rights in the NFC North and a deeper playoff run, even if the Bears were bounced by the Rams the following week.
For Packers fans, watching the Bears win the division and then advance further in the postseason was salt in an already fresh wound. But there’s reason for optimism in Green Bay, and it starts under center.
Jordan Love is the guy. That much is clear.
After taking the reins and showing flashes of real promise, Love is expected to be the long-term answer at quarterback. He’s got the arm, the poise, and the locker room behind him.
But as every NFL team knows, depth at quarterback isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity.
Enter Kyle McCord.
Green Bay made an early offseason move to shore up the QB room by signing McCord, who was a sixth-round pick by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2025 NFL Draft. While he hasn’t seen live NFL action yet, McCord brings an intriguing skill set and a big arm - and he’s already drawing attention.
Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden chimed in with some enthusiasm, posting, “Let’s goo!! @kylemccord16,” in response to the signing. That kind of reaction doesn’t come lightly, especially from a coach known for his quarterback evaluations.
McCord’s college résumé speaks for itself. In his final season at Syracuse, he led the nation with a staggering 4,779 passing yards, tossing 34 touchdowns against 12 interceptions.
Those numbers aren’t just impressive - they’re eye-popping. Before his breakout year with the Orange, McCord spent three seasons at Ohio State, where he developed in one of college football’s most competitive environments.
For Green Bay, this is a low-risk, high-upside move. McCord adds depth, competition, and a developmental option behind Love. And while he’s not expected to push for the starting job, having a young, talented passer learning the system and growing within the organization is exactly the kind of forward-thinking roster move that can pay dividends down the line.
The Packers have their franchise quarterback. Now they’re making sure the room behind him is built to sustain success - and maybe even surprise a few people along the way.