Green Bay Packers QB Taylor Elgersma Talks Battle For 53-Man Roster Spot
The Green Bay Packers’ quarterback room has been a topic of intense scrutiny throughout the 2025 preseason, and while Jordan Love’s thumb injury has dominated headlines, another story has been quietly unfolding. Rookie quarterback Taylor Elgersma, the undrafted free agent from Canada, has been making his case to earn the third quarterback spot on the roster with a combination of raw talent and unwavering confidence.
Green Bay Packers Taylor Elgersma: The Arm That Can’t Be Taught
When Taylor Elgersma speaks about his greatest asset, there’s no hesitation in his voice. The rookie quarterback possesses what many consider the most important tool for success at the position: a legitimate NFL arm.
“I played a little baseball when I was younger but I always had an arm,” Elgersma said after practice on Monday. “When I started picking up the football in high school, it was, ‘I’m pretty good at throwing this thing.’ Definitely feel like that’s something of mine that I have a high ceiling and I have the arm to make all the throws.”
This isn’t just rookie bravado talking. Elgersma’s arm strength has been evident throughout training camp and preseason games, allowing him to make throws that many quarterbacks simply cannot attempt. His ability to drive the ball downfield and fit passes into tight windows has caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike.
The physical tools are undeniable, but as Elgersma himself acknowledges, arm strength alone won’t guarantee success at the professional level. “Now, it’s about making sure my process is good every single snap to allow me to use that to the best of my ability,” he explained.
From Hockey Rinks to Football Fields
Elgersma’s journey to Green Bay is anything but conventional. Like many Canadian kids, he grew up playing hockey, developing the competitive instincts and physical toughness that would later serve him well on the gridiron. His background as a defenseman has shown up in his fearless approach to the quarterback position, evidenced by his willingness to take hits and stand tall in the pocket.
But it was football that ultimately captured his heart and imagination. “As soon as I picked up the football and started playing, I realized this is what I’m made to do,” Elgersma reflected. “I feel like I have the skill-set and the physicality and the size, the arm and the brain to be a quarterback. It’s just about putting it all together.”
That transition from hockey to football speaks to Elgersma’s adaptability and athletic versatility—qualities that could serve him well as he attempts to carve out a role in the NFL.
Preseason Highs and Learning Moments
Taylor Elgersma’s preseason performance has been a microcosm of his development as a quarterback: flashes of brilliance mixed with moments that remind everyone he’s still learning the intricacies of professional football. Perhaps no play better illustrated this than his touchdown pass to Ben Sims against the Indianapolis Colts, which was ultimately nullified by a penalty.
The play showcased both his arm talent and his need for continued development in reading defenses and making proper decisions. While the touchdown was taken off the board, it demonstrated the kind of big-play ability that makes coaches take notice of an undrafted rookie.
Throughout the preseason, Elgersma has shown the ability to make impressive throws while also displaying the growing pains typical of a young quarterback adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. His willingness to take chances has resulted in both spectacular completions and questionable decisions, reflecting a player still finding the balance between aggression and smart play.
The Intelligence Factor
What separates Elgersma from other strong-armed quarterbacks who have failed to make it in the NFL is his football intelligence. Coaches have been impressed with his ability to grasp concepts quickly and his dedication to studying film and understanding defensive schemes.
This intellectual approach to the game gives him a real chance to succeed where others with similar physical gifts have failed. The combination of arm talent and intelligence is exactly what NFL teams look for in developing quarterbacks, especially those competing for roster spots.
His hockey background may have actually helped in this regard, as the sport requires quick decision-making and spatial awareness that translates well to reading defenses and understanding field positioning.
The Battle for QB3
With Jordan Love established as the starter and Malik Willis firmly entrenched as the backup, Elgersma finds himself in a competitive battle for the third quarterback spot. The Green Bay Packers’ coaching staff, led by head coach Matt LaFleur, has shown they value quarterback depth, making this competition particularly meaningful.
LaFleur and offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich have been evaluating not just Elgersma’s on-field performance, but also his practice habits, leadership qualities, and ability to contribute to the team’s preparation each week. The third quarterback role often involves extensive scout team work and helping prepare the defense for upcoming opponents.
Elgersma’s attitude and work ethic have impressed coaches throughout the preseason. His willingness to learn from mistakes and his constant desire to improve align with the culture LaFleur has established in Green Bay.
Areas for Continued Growth
While Taylor Elgersma’s arm strength and intelligence give him a foundation for success, there are clear areas where continued development is necessary. His decision-making under pressure needs refinement, and his footwork and pocket presence require consistent work.
The speed of the NFL game is still an adjustment for the rookie, and there have been moments where he’s held onto the ball too long or failed to recognize developing pressure. These are common issues for young quarterbacks, but they’re particularly important for someone fighting for a roster spot.
Ball security has also been an area of focus, as any fumbles or interceptions in preseason games are magnified for players on the roster bubble. Elgersma has generally taken care of the football, but maintaining that consistency will be crucial.
What It Means for Green Bay’s Depth
The Green Bay Packers’ interest in developing Elgersma reflects their understanding of the importance of quarterback depth in today’s NFL. Injuries happen, and having a third quarterback who can step in if needed is valuable insurance for any franchise.
Elgersma’s development also speaks to the organization’s ability to identify and nurture talent from unconventional sources. Finding a potential contributor as an undrafted free agent from Canada would be a testament to the scouting and development systems in place.
If Elgersma makes the roster, he would likely spend most of his time on the practice squad, continuing to develop while serving as emergency depth. This path has worked for other young quarterbacks who have gone on to have successful NFL careers.
Looking Ahead
As the Green Bay Packers prepare for their final preseason game and roster cuts loom, Elgersma’s fate remains uncertain. What’s clear is that he’s made the most of his opportunity, showing enough potential to warrant serious consideration for the quarterback room.
Whether he makes the initial 53-man roster or lands on the practice squad, Elgersma has established himself as a quarterback worth developing. His combination of physical tools, intelligence, and determination gives him a legitimate chance to succeed in the NFL.
For the Green Bay Packers, having a young quarterback with Elgersma’s upside provides valuable depth and a potential long-term asset. In a league where quarterback play can change fortunes overnight, having multiple options is never a bad thing.
The Canadian who fell in love with football at first sight continues to chase his NFL dream, armed with the belief that he has what it takes to play on Sundays. Time will tell if the Packers agree.
