Logo

Packers Consider Reunion with QB Sean Clifford Beat Out in 2023 Amid QB3 Flux

Article image

GREEN BAY, Wis. — August 2025 — With Jordan Love easing back from a left-thumb procedure and the back end of the depth chart still in motion, the Green Bay Packers are exploring a reunion with Alex McGough — the veteran quarterback beaten out by then-rookie Sean Clifford for a 53-man spot in 2023. Today, the room reads Love / Malik Willis / Clifford / Taylor Elgersma, but the staff continues to evaluate the QB3/QB4 lane as camp compresses. 

McGough’s case is simple: he already knows the building. After winning USFL MVP and signing with Green Bay in 2023, he landed on the practice squad when Clifford claimed the roster job, then transitioned to wide receiver in 2024 before an injury settlement and a late-season PS return. A short-notice workout would cost little and could stabilize installs while Love ramps and the staff gauges Elgersma’s curve. 

McGough’s perspective:
Getting beat out in ’23 wasn’t easy to swallow. But seeing what Sean’s done since, you tip your cap. This time I’m back — wearing the green and gold — to compete and keep pushing. And just so he knows, I’m grinding every day to settle an old score with myself.

After the remarks, McGough would head straight into refresh mode — verbiage, protections, and timing in Green Bay’s motion-heavy West Coast menu — while the staff scripts backed-up, two-minute, and play-action periods to check rhythm and decision-making. Internally, there are no promises attached to any reunion; the mandate is simple: raise the floor, keep practice clean, and be ready if called.

For the Packers, this isn’t about rewriting 2023. It’s about earning 2025. If McGough steadies the day-to-day and keeps the operation on schedule, he’ll give himself a real shot at the QB3 seat — or a protected practice-squad role when the 53 locks. Either way, in Titletown the standard doesn’t change: show up, stack good days, and honor the green and gold.

25 views
Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722