After Saturday’s preseason finale, Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur hinted that their backup quarterback might not come from their current roster. Just two days later, that hint became reality.

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

Throughout the summer, the Packers held a competition between second-year player Sean Clifford and rookie Michael Pratt for the backup role, which Clifford held last season. Clifford was a fifth round pick last year, while Pratt was a seventh-round pick this year. Although both had strong moments, neither performed well enough to assure the Packers they could win games if Love were sidelined.

When asked after the preseason finale if he was satisfied with the options behind Love, LaFleur responded, “We’ll see.” He acknowledged some positive moments but also noted areas needing improvement and indicated they would consider all available options.

The Packers may still keep Clifford or Pratt on the roster temporarily, at least until Willis learns the offense. It might be unrealistic for Willis to immediately step into the No. 2 spot for the season opener against the Eagles, which is in 11 days. A source suggested Clifford might be released by Tuesday’s roster cutdown to 53 players, while Pratt could either make the roster or join the practice squad if he clears waivers, potentially allowing him to serve as a game-day practice-squad elevation.

The Packers have made a significant commitment to Love, their 2020 first-round pick, who, recently signed a four-year, $220 million contract early in training camp.

Willis had been the Titans’ third-string quarterback, positioned behind starter Will Levis and backup Mason Rudolph. Although he mostly practiced with the third team during training camp, he showed progress in his first year under new coach Brian Callahan.

Callahan hinted that the Titans might not retain three quarterbacks, despite the NFL’s revised rule on third quarterbacks. “It might seem like a free spot for a third quarterback, but it’s not—you still need to use a spot on your 53-man roster,” he explained.

Willis became expendable as the Titans prioritized depth in other positions, likely opting to keep additional tight ends and running backs instead.