Packers update Jordan Love thumb surgery and Week 1 outlook

Love had surgery on his left thumb to repair a ligament after injuring it in the preseason.

Packers quarterback Jordan Love undergoes thumb surgery to be Week 1 ready

Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love underwent surgery on his left thumb this week to repair a ligament. The ulnar collateral ligament repair was performed in Los Angeles on Tuesday, following the injury he suffered in Saturday's preseason opener against the New York Jets. Love appeared at practice with his left hand heavily wrapped and used his right hand for some plays during the session. Coach Matt LaFleur said Love would not throw immediately, but the team expects some throwing participation next week as rehab progresses. The Packers plan to ease him back in as Week 1 approaches. Malik Willis will start Saturday's preseason game against the Colts, and Green Bay has another joint practice with the Seattle Seahawks before the finale. Love's injury history includes a season-opening MCL sprain and a later groin issue, which adds context to the decision to operate now rather than delay.

The move shows how teams balance risk and readiness, trading a potential slow start for long-term health. Early surgery gives Love a clearer path to being 100 percent for Week 1, but the clock is tight for throwing reps. If he builds throwing and movement quickly, the offense gains stability; if not, the Packers will rely more on depth at quarterback and the run game. In the broader NFL context, this kind of proactive rehab reflects a trend toward aggressive injury management to protect young quarterbacks who shape a franchise’s future.

Highlights

The weeks ahead will reveal how the Packers balance health and game readiness.