Packers Invite Veteran QB Jameis Winston to Tryouts to Bolster Backup Options for Jordan Love

Green Bay, WI – June 28, 2025

The Green Bay Packers are making a calculated move to deepen their quarterback roster as they prepare for the 2025 season, inviting veteran quarterback Jameis Winston to tryouts to enhance backup support for starter Jordan Love, sources confirmed Saturday. This strategic step aims to safeguard the team’s postseason ambitions.

Winston, 30, brings a robust resume to the table, having played 10 NFL seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2015-2019), New Orleans Saints (2020-2022), and Cleveland Browns (2023-2024). A former Heisman Trophy winner at Florida State in 2013, he led the Buccaneers to the NFC Championship in 2016 and threw for 5,109 yards and 33 touchdowns in 2019, earning a Pro Bowl nod. His 2024 stint with the Browns saw him throw for 1,665 yards and 12 touchdowns in eight starts, proving his capability. “Jameis offers a wealth of experience and a strong arm,” GM Brian Gutekunst noted to The Green Bay Press-Gazette, highlighting his potential impact.

The invitation addresses concerns over the current backups, Malik Willis and Sean Clifford. Willis, traded from the Titans in 2024, has a 3-2 record but limited experience, while Clifford, a 2023 fifth-round pick, has only one career start. With Love’s $220 million extension straining the cap to a $6.8 million deficit, a one-year deal for Winston around $2-3 million aligns with the budget. “Jordan is our franchise quarterback, but we need a seasoned backup to ensure stability,” coach Matt LaFleur emphasized.

Winston’s tryout, scheduled for July 3, 2025, during OTAs, will assess his arm strength and game management. His 2024 PFF passing grade of 79.8 reflects solid performance despite a 4-4 record. Fans on social media are enthusiastic, with posts like “Winston to Green Bay? Great depth move!” and “Heisman winner as QB2—smart!”

This move mitigates risks following Love’s 2024 ankle sprain, providing depth against a competitive NFC North. For Winston, it’s a chance to mentor Willis and Clifford while proving his value beyond a backup role. Can this veteran addition secure Green Bay’s Super Bowl hopes? Stay tuned for more updates.