The number one reason for signing Tyrod Taylor is to give the Green Bay Packers a capable insurance policy if Jordan Love misses time. That's what they enjoyed for two seasons with Malik Willis.
However, Taylor's greatest potential impact is the one slipping under the radar. It's not just about what Taylor can do on the field, when needed, but also his role when he's standing on the sideline.
In an article this week for Sports Illustrated, NFL insider Albert Breer raised a fascinating point about Taylor's veteran experience and how his arrival helps Love.
"I actually think there could be real benefits to Love in having Taylor around," writes Breer. "Since Aaron Rodgers left Green Bay three years ago, Love has been the most experienced quarterback in the room every season, so having an elder statesman in there with him, I think, will be to his benefit."
Tyrod Taylor is the exact sidekick Jordan Love needs at this stage of his career
Love spent the first three seasons of his NFL career learning from Aaron Rodgers. He had a front-row seat for consecutive MVP triumphs, and even the most casual of observers can spot the traits Love inherited from his predecessor.
But since Love took the reins, there has been a lack of experience alongside him in the quarterback room. In 2023, the Packers went with rookie Sean Clifford. Willis took the backup job for the next two seasons. Despite all of Willis' success on the field, he arrived in Green Bay as an unproven prospect. It's a different story with Taylor.
The veteran is exactly what 2026 Jordan Love needs. Love has evolved into one of the NFC's elite quarterbacks, and if all goes well, he could enter the MVP race this fall.
Having an experienced quarterback in his corner, a player who has seen it all, will help Love reach those ambitious goals.
Taylor has spent time as a starter and as a backup. He brings 15 years, 100 appearances, 62 starts, and 1,886 passes with him to Green Bay.
It's the little things. Taylor will be a fantastic resource to Love in-game, breaking down what they're seeing on film. Identifying areas where Love can improve. Discussing his decision-making and potential opportunities to attack the defense.
Taylor said it best: "We're each other's eyes while we're not on the field."
It's in those moments, between series, when Taylor's experience can help Love make the necessary adjustments. That's not to say Willis and Clifford didn't offer that kind of help when they stood on the sideline, but Taylor has seen it all during his decade-and-a-half career.
When we think of Taylor joining the Packers, we tend to focus on his ability to contribute in a meaningful way when Love isn't available.
In actual fact, it's how Taylor can help the team when Love is playing that could make a far greater impact.
