Packers will release DeShone Kizer, stick with Tim Boyle as backup QB for now

After an inconsistent preseason, DeShone Kizer’s tenure in Green Bay appears to be over. The Green Bay Packers will release Kizer, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, likely leaving Tim Boyle as the sole backup behind Aaron Rodgers when the Packers finalize their initial 53-man roster.

There are no reports yet of fourth-string QB Manny Wilkins being released, but that is expected to take place before the deadline at 4:00 PM Eastern.

Boyle earned the job on the heels of some impressive statistics this August. He completed 34 of 57 passes for 356 yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions, posting a passer rating of 112.9. That was ninth among quarterbacks who attempted at least 20 passes during the preseason. Kizer, by contrast, was 25-fot-45 for 273 yards, two touchdowns, and two picks.

The more conventional drop-back passer of the two, Boyle has struggled at times when under pressure. He also often seemed to take a few series to get comfortable in the flow of the game before settling in. Kizer, meanwhile, seemed to throw the ball better than his statistics would indicate, but ultimately the offense seemed to flow less smoothly with him taking the snaps than Boyle.

The Packers could still make a change at the quarterback position, particularly if a veteran backup intrigues them. The New England Patriots released veteran Brian Hoyer on Saturday, a player whom the Packers tried to bring in a few years ago, and there will be other options like former Bronco Kevin Hogan or former Giant Kyle Lauletta. But for Saturday night at least, Boyle is the man.