Packers' Jordan Love to undergo thumb surgery; Willis to start camp

The Green Bay Packers announced that starting quarterback Jordan Love will undergo surgery to repair a ligament in his left thumb, a nonthrowing-hand injury suffered during the team’s preseason opener. The procedure was described as successful, and Love is said to be in good spirits. The club expects him to return to practice next week, with the goal of being ready for the regular-season opener against the Detroit Lions on Sept. 7. In the interim, Malik Willis will take the role of temporary starting quarterback for camp practices and the upcoming preseason game, giving the coaching staff a chance to evaluate options while Love rehabs.

The injury occurred when Love’s thumb struck a helmet during Saturday’s preseason defeat, and the team determined that surgery was the best path to a prompt and complete recovery. General manager Brian Gutekunst stressed that the procedure is minor in nature and aimed at a quick comeback, adding that the team will monitor Love’s progress day by day as he works back in the coming week. Gutekunst indicated that there is optimism about Love’s ability to practice and prepare for Week 1, contingent on the rehabilitation timeline.