Packers trade for QB Malik Willis from the Titans, according to sources.



 Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur suggested after Saturday's preseason finale that the backup quarterback might not be someone already on the roster, and just two days later, that became a reality.

On Monday, the Packers traded a 2025 seventh-round draft pick to the Tennessee Titans for quarterback Malik Willis, as reported by ESPN's Adam Schefter. Willis is expected to serve as the backup to Jordan Love this season.

The Packers had held a summer competition between second-year player Sean Clifford and rookie Michael Pratt for the backup role, which Clifford filled last season as a rookie. Both players had their moments, but neither distinguished themselves enough to assure the team they could step in effectively if needed.

After the preseason finale, LaFleur was asked about the team's options behind Love, to which he replied, "We'll see." He noted, "There were some really good moments, but there were also things we absolutely have to do better... and then we'll evaluate everything that's out there for us."

The Packers may choose to keep either Clifford or Pratt on the roster for now, at least until Willis gets acclimated to the offense. However, sources indicated that Clifford is "likely gone," meaning he could be released by the Tuesday deadline for rosters to be trimmed to 53 players. If so, Pratt might either secure a spot on the initial roster or join the practice squad if he clears waivers, potentially allowing him to be elevated for game days.

The Packers have heavily invested in Love, the 2020 first-round pick, who signed a four-year, $220 million contract early in training camp after just one season as a starter.

Willis, who would have been the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Will Levis and backup Mason Rudolph in Tennessee, mostly worked with the third team during training camp but showed improvement under new coach Brian Callahan. Callahan hinted at possibly not keeping three quarterbacks during his news conference on Monday, emphasizing the need for roster spots and the reality of making tough decisions.

In a related move, the Denver Broncos are reportedly seeking trade partners for wide receiver Tim Patrick, who is expected to be released if a deal isn't finalized before Tuesday's roster cut deadline. Patrick, who has battled injuries for two years, made a strong showing in the preseason but faces stiff competition in a deep wide receiver room.

Coach Sean Payton acknowledged that this is a challenging decision, considering Patrick's grit and popularity within the team. Alongside Patrick, running back Samaje Perine may also find himself squeezed out due to a crowded depth chart.

After suffering a torn ACL in 2022 and a torn Achilles in 2023, Patrick returned to full participation in training camp and recorded five catches for 44 yards and a touchdown in the preseason. The Broncos added two wide receivers in the draft, Troy Franklin and Devaughn Vele, both of whom are expected to make the roster.

In Seattle, the Seahawks are dealing with the fallout from a sprained MCL suffered by top edge rusher Uchenna Nwosu, who is expected to be sidelined for two to six weeks. In response, they traded for linebacker Trevis Gipson from the Jaguars, sending a 2025 sixth-round pick in exchange. Nwosu was injured during the preseason finale and may miss the first part of the season.

These roster adjustments reflect the teams' strategic moves as they prepare for the upcoming season, with significant implications for player careers and team dynamics.

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