The Green Bay Packers' decision not to retain quarterbacks Taylor Elgersma or Sean Clifford on their initial 53-man roster didn't come as too much of a surprise. Their next move undoubtedly does.
According to Bill Huber of Sports Illustrated, the Packers have no plans to bring back either player to their practice squad if they clear waivers. Now that is surprising, as it leaves Green Bay without a QB3 and nobody at the position on the practice squad.
Clifford's departure felt inevitable after a disappointing training camp, but not retaining Elgersma suggests that they don't believe in his long-term upside. Notably, it also means the Packers' next QB3 will come from another team.
All eyes turn to free agency as Packers need a quarterback to replace Taylor Elgersma and Sean Clifford
Jordan Love and Malik Willis are the only quarterbacks on the Packers' 53-man roster. With neither Elgersma nor Clifford returning, the team will need to find another passer for the practice squad.
Could that mean making a move for former third-round pick Hendon Hooker if he clears waivers?
Hooker would give Matt LaFleur a developmental QB3 to work with, but he could also share some insight into the Detroit Lions' new offensive scheme before the Packers host them next week. Something to watch.
Maybe an experienced veteran like Tyler Huntley becomes available. He'd offer more short-term help if the Packers suffered an injury crisis at the position, as the former Pro Bowler has starting experience. It's hard to imagine Huntley taking a QB3 job in Green Bay, though, as he will likely get better opportunities elsewhere.
The Packers will need to make a move, and their quick decision not to retain either of their own third-string QB contenders suggests they have targets in mind.
It's something to watch closely as the Packers start building their practice squad. Green Bay likely won't make any waiver claims at quarterback, as that would mean creating room on the 53-man roster. But beyond that, the free-agent market will become interesting as the Packers look for a new QB3.