The Green Bay Packers signed quarterback Desmond Ridder to their practice squad on Wednesday, providing additional depth at the position as the team prepares for its regular-season finale. The move comes as uncertainty surrounds the availability of starting quarterback Jordan Love and backup Malik Willis.
Ridder, who most recently played for the Atlanta Falcons, adds experience to the Packers’ quarterback room. A third-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Ridder started multiple games over two seasons in Atlanta before being released earlier this year. His addition gives Green Bay four quarterbacks within the organization, though only members of the 53-man active roster are eligible to play in games unless one is elevated from the practice squad.
Jordan Love has started every game for the Packers this season, leading the team through a crucial late-season stretch. However, his status for Sunday’s game remains uncertain due to an undisclosed issue. Malik Willis, signed earlier this season following an injury to backup Sean Clifford, is also dealing with health concerns. The team has not confirmed the extent of either player’s condition, but head coach Matt LaFleur indicated earlier this week that evaluations are ongoing.
Should both Love and Willis be unavailable, the Packers may need to elevate Ridder to serve as the backup or even start, depending on Clifford’s status and roster decisions. The team has not yet announced any changes to the depth chart ahead of their final regular-season matchup, which has potential playoff implications.
Ridder’s arrival offers a degree of contingency planning for Green Bay’s coaching staff during a pivotal phase of the season. While his time with the Packers has only just begun, his prior starting experience in the NFL positions him as a valuable emergency option.
The Packers are expected to provide further updates on their quarterback situation later in the week following additional practice sessions and medical evaluations.
