Since taking over the starting role in 2023, Love has operated within an offense that prioritized the ground game, with LaFleur calling designed runs on 43.8% of plays—a rate surpassed only by the Baltimore Ravens and Philadelphia Eagles. This approach marked a significant departure from LaFleur’s earlier years coaching Aaron Rodgers, during which the team rarely ranked in the top 15 for designed run percentage.
Building Trust and Tactical Ownership
The transition toward giving Love more autonomy has been gradual but deliberate. During the 2026 preseason, LaFleur provided the quarterback with the opportunity to call offensive plays for backup players, a move intended to test Love’s composure and decision-making under pressure. LaFleur noted that Love’s calm demeanor on the headset mirrored his performance on the field, reinforcing the coach's confidence in his signal-caller.
Former NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, who experienced a similar evolution in his own relationship with coaching staff, suggested that Love has reached a critical juncture in his career. Rodgers emphasized that after three seasons as a starter and multiple playoff appearances, Love possesses the necessary experience to take full ownership of the offense. According to Rodgers, the ability to communicate effectively and dictate play-calling is the natural next step for a quarterback with Love’s body of work.
Evidence of Elite Potential
Despite the team's reliance on the run, data suggests that Love has already been operating at a high level when the ball is in the air. Since 2023, he has maintained the third-highest average air yards per attempt in the league at 8.3. Furthermore, Love has demonstrated a knack for high-stakes performance, tying for the league lead with eight fourth-quarter comebacks over the past three seasons. His QBR of 67.1 during that same period ranks among the elite, trailing only Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson.
To further refine Love’s game, LaFleur has emphasized the importance of pocket balance and footwork, factors he believes will lead to greater consistency and accuracy. With the team facing potential changes to the backfield rotation, the stage appears set for a more pass-centric approach. When asked directly during training camp if he would “let Jordan Love cook” in 2026, LaFleur offered a definitive response: “Yeah, we’re going to let him cook.”
