3 reasons why the Packers drafted QB Sean Clifford
By Joe Tuman
Competitive spirit
A notable trait Clifford has displayed is a willingness to meet challenges head-on, not run from them.
Throughout his college career, Clifford faced competition from other quarterbacks, as well as some fan backlash. However, he didn't let these hurdles bring him down.
One player Clifford competed with during their time as teammates was Will Levis, who was drafted by the Titans in the second round of this year's draft.
Levis played at Penn State from 2018-2020, appearing in 14 games and starting twice. While his unquestioned talents eventually led to his success at Kentucky, he was never able to wrestle away the starting job from Clifford.
More recently, Clifford shared the QB room with freshman Drew Allar last fall. Allar was rated a five-star recruit by 247Sports coming out of high school, and his arrival at Penn State drew plenty of excitement, along with some cries for him to immediately take the starting reins.
Calls for Allar intensified after Clifford struggled against both Michigan and Ohio State. Despite his long tenure, some Penn State fans were ready to see the veteran quarterback unseated, while members of the media also questioned if it was time for a change.
Clifford responded by putting forth a fantastic final five games, throwing eight touchdowns and only one pick during a stretch that culminated with the eventual Rose Bowl win.
Clifford's ability to tune out the doubters and lock in proved his leadership and confidence in himself. Traits like that are exactly what any team wants in a quarterback, and surely influenced the Packers' decision to add him.