Key takeaways from Day 1 of Packers training camp including Jordan Love update
![Packers coach Matt LaFleur talks to the media Packers coach Matt LaFleur talks to the media](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_4032,h_2268,x_0,y_385/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/51/01j3dxwnesbf7gj767rv.jpg)
The Green Bay Packers made an eventful start to training camp without their starting quarterback on the practice field.
Jordan Love is close to signing a massive contract extension, but until it gets over the line, he is understandably skipping practice. General manager Brian Gutekunst didn't sound too concerned during his press conference, saying he believes it could happen in the coming days.
While Love didn't throw any passes, he still attended practice. This isn't a hold-out with Love sitting at home until a deal gets done. He is with the team and taking part in everything apart from getting the physical reps on the practice field.
There's plenty to break down from the opening day of camp, from the latest on Love's contract to the injury updates and a potential change along the offensive line.
3 important takeaways from Packers training camp Day 1
Jordan Love won't practice until he gets new deal, but it's coming soon
So, we know Jordan Love isn't practicing until he gets a new deal. But when will it get done? The answer is soon. Very soon, most likely. ESPN's Adam Schefter told the Pat McAfee Show that he believes Love could become the highest-paid quarterback in the league by the end of this week.
"Both sides think they can get it worked out. It's not done," said Schefter. "I think by the end of the week, my guess would be that Jordan Love will have a new contract that probably makes him one of the, if not the highest-paid quarterback in NFL history."
Love not practicing increases the urgency to get it done. Skipping the first couple of days is no big deal, but Matt LaFleur will want him out there when they put the pads on.
Watch this space. Love is about to get his historic contract.
Packers injury updates
The Packers are dealing with a handful of injuries to begin training camp, but it started with good news. The team activated starting right tackle Zach Tom from the PUP list. He is recovering from a torn pec. Tight end Tucker Kraft suffered the same injury this offseason but isn't quite ready to return.
Packers injuries:
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) July 22, 2024
Jayden Reed (toe)
MarShawn Lloyd (hip)
Corey Ballentine (hammy)
Caleb Jones (hammy)
Donovan Jennings (knee)
Second-year wide receiver Jayden Reed said he suffered a toe injury at a youth football camp he hosted last week but added that it's "nothing to worry about." He shouldn't be sidelined for too long.
Rookie running back MarShawn Lloyd didn't practice due to a hip injury. It's unclear how much time he will miss. Cornerback Corey Ballentine, tackle Caleb Jones, and undrafted offensive lineman Donovan Jennings begin training camp on the PUP list.
Hey, it wouldn't feel like Packers football had returned without a few injuries. The good news is there don't appear to be any long-term concerns about any of the injured players.
Elgton Jenkins taking snaps at center could hint at offensive line shakeup
Expect plenty of twists and turns in the offensive line positional battles this summer as LaFleur figures out his "best five."
Josh Myers is entering the final year of his contract and could face competition for the starting center job. According to Packer Report's Andy Herman, Elgton Jenkins had "multiple looks as the first team center" during Monday's practice.
If nothing else, it shows the Packers are considering their options at center.
Jenkins is a Pro Bowler at left guard but has previous experience at center. He could comfortably make the switch, allowing another player (maybe first-round pick Jordan Morgan) to take on the starting duties at left guard.
LaFleur will experiment with various starting combinations, but this is something to watch.
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