The final audition has arrived. With roster cuts just days away, Saturday’s preseason finale between the Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks isn’t about winning or losing. It’s about proving you belong in the NFL.
Dreams will be made and crushed under the Lambeau Field lights as bubble players get their last chance to show coaches they’re worth keeping around.
Will Jordan Love and Other Packers Starters See Action Against Seattle?
Green Bay head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that Jordan Love will not play as he continues recovering from thumb surgery. The decision prioritizes Love’s health over getting him preseason reps, leaving backup Malik Willis to handle the starting duties.
Behind Willis, the quarterback depth chart remains unsettled. Sean Clifford and rookie Taylor Elgersma are locked in a battle for the No. 3 spot, making this game crucial for their roster hopes. Both quarterbacks need to show they can manage the offense and avoid costly mistakes.
LaFleur has used injury-risk data throughout the preseason to justify giving select veterans limited snaps, but he’s drawing a clear line at his franchise quarterback. Other starters could see brief action early, though the primary focus shifts to evaluating depth players ahead of Tuesday’s roster cutdowns.
The Seahawks present a different approach entirely. Coach Mike Macdonald confirmed none of his starters will play, instead handing the entire game to rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe.
Which Young Packers Need To Shine in Their Final Audition?
The offensive line competition has been the story of Green Bay’s August. Injuries have created unexpected opportunities, and 2024 first-round pick Jordan Morgan has seized his chance.
At wide receiver, the depth chart battle continues to intensify. While Christian Watson and Jayden Reed have secured their roster spots, the competition behind them remains wide open.
Bo Melton brings speed and route-running precision, while Malik Heath offers size and red-zone potential. Veteran Mecole Hardman adds experience and special-teams value, creating a three-way fight for limited spots.
The secondary faces similar roster pressure. Established players like Keisean Nixon, Nate Hobbs, and Carrington Valentine are locks, but the final defensive back spots remain up for grabs.
Kalen King, Micah Robinson, and Kamal Hadden have shown flashes throughout camp, while veteran Corey Ballentine provides insurance with his experience. Tonight’s performance could determine who survives the final cuts.
Meanwhile, linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper has quietly built a case for himself through special-teams excellence. His coverage skills and motor have caught coaches’ attention, putting him in contention for one of the final defensive roster spots. A strong showing against Seattle could push him over the edge.
Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, August 23, at 4 p.m. ET from Lambeau Field. The game will air on the Packers TV Network, with Kevin Harlan, John Kuhn, and Ashley Washburn calling the action. Out-of-market fans can stream the game live on NFL+.
