The Green Bay Packers shocked many during the 2023 NFL Draft when they selected QB Sean Clifford from Penn State. Early this offseason, the Packers turned the page from future Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers to 2020 first-round selection Jordan Love.
Green Bay made it a point of emphasis to surround Love with plenty of offensive talent, as they have loaded up at WR and TE during the last two drafts, including Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, Luke Musgrave, and Tucker Kraft.
While it would be surprising to see Clifford compete with Love for Green Bay’s starting role, a rookie signal-caller didn’t appear to be on the list of draft needs, especially a quarterback who was much-maligned during his Penn State career.
Sean Clifford Set Several Penn State Records
Many college football and Penn State fans may be shocked to know that Clifford set several program records during his time in Happy Valley. In fact, he leaves Penn State as the all-time leader in QB wins. Clifford also leaves Penn State as the all-time leader in completions, completion percentage, passing yards, total yards, passing touchdowns, and passing attempts.
Wins: 32
Completions: 883
Completion Percentage: .614
Passing Yards: 10,661
Total Yards: 11,734
Passing Touchdowns: 86
Passing Attempts: 1,356
Clifford eclipsed many of the records set by previous Penn State QB Trace McSorley.
Clifford Was a Polarizing Collegiate Player
Despite his statistical success, Clifford was a polarizing player during his time at Penn State. On more than one occasion, actually, Nittany Lions’ fans and media personalities were calling for Clifford’s benching.
Clifford was viewed as a statistical compiler. He was around forever at Penn State, and many of his records are achievements due to his longevity.
Even now, following his departure to the NFL, many Penn State fans feel refreshed with Drew Allar stepping in, given that the perception is that he is a quarterback with far more upside. That’s the juxtaposition that comes with a QB like Clifford.
Clifford is a college coach’s dream. He’s reliable and has the leadership qualities and intangibles coaches look for. He knows the offense as well as any offensive coordinator on staff.
The problem is Clifford offers close to zero upside. You know what you’re getting. He’s Alex Smith-esque in an era where everyone is looking for the next Patrick Mahomes.
Why Did the Green Bay Packers Draft Sean Clifford?
Most NFL analysts had Clifford graded as an undrafted rookie free agent. He doesn’t possess high-upside athletic traits, so he didn’t wow throughout the 2023 NFL Draft process.
When Green Bay selected him in Round 5 of the 2023 NFL Draft, many pundits took shots at them, but perhaps the Packers and Clifford can get the last laugh.
Not surprisingly, Clifford looks like a career NFL backup QB — a player who can run the offense efficiently in the short term and keep your team afloat. We’ll get our first glimpse of him on Friday night.
