Clayton Tune to Start for Packers in Season Finale: A Career-Defining Opportunity

The Green Bay Packers are handing the keys to the offense to quarterback Clayton Tune for their Week 18 regular-season finale against the Minnesota Vikings. With the team’s playoff seeding likely secured, head coach Matt LaFleur confirmed the decision to rest starter Jordan Love, thrusting the third-year pro into the spotlight for a crucial NFC North matchup. For Tune, a former Arizona Cardinal, this start represents a pivotal audition for his NFL future.

The move comes despite Jordan Love being cleared from the concussion protocol. LaFleur emphasized the priority of player health, stating, “It’s tough on him, because he wants to be out there. But he understands. He’s not totally 100 percent. He probably could’ve played if we wanted.” With backup Malik Willis also nursing injuries, the stage is set for Tune to lead the team in a high-stakes environment.

From Arizona to Green Bay: Tune’s NFL Journey

Clayton Tune’s path to this moment has been a circuitous one. Drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2023, he spent two seasons primarily as a depth option behind Kyler Murray. His most notable action came in a 2024 preseason victory, where he took a knee in the victory formation—a small but symbolic moment for a young quarterback. The Packers signed him ahead of the 2025 season, adding him to their practice squad before a recent elevation to the active roster.

His regular-season experience is limited but growing. In Week 17 against the Baltimore Ravens, Tune saw late-game action, completing one of four passes for 8 yards with an interception that deflected off a receiver’s hands. Packers coaches, however, have seen promising signs in practice. “Accuracy has jumped out for Packers QB Clayton Tune,” was the notable takeaway from a January 2, 2026, team report, highlighting a key trait he’ll need against the Vikings’ defense.

Week 18 Start: The Logistics

The Packers’ quarterback strategy for the finale is now clear. While Tune gets the start, the team has prepared contingencies. Veteran Desmond Ridder was added to the practice squad and may be elevated to serve as the primary backup, with Jordan Love likely designated as the emergency third quarterback.

By the Numbers: Clayton Tune’s Career Stats

To understand the quarterback the Packers are turning to, a look at his professional statistics is essential. His body of work, while small, shows a player who has navigated limited opportunities across two franchises.

Fantasy Football and Betting Implications

The announcement sent immediate ripples through the fantasy football and sports betting worlds for the final week of the season. Tune, largely unrostered in fantasy leagues, becomes a wildcard starter. His presence under center also impacts the value of Packers pass-catchers and the game’s point spread. Most analysts project a conservative game plan, leaning on the running game to support the young quarterback in his first start for Green Bay.

For the Vikings, the game remains critical. Facing a backup quarterback often alters defensive schemes, potentially leading to more aggressive pass rushes and coverage looks designed to confuse a less experienced player. How Tune handles this pressure will be the central storyline of the game.

What This Means for the Packers’ Playoff Run

Starting Clayton Tune is a calculated risk that underscores the Packers’ confidence in their playoff positioning. The primary goal is to enter the postseason with a healthy Jordan Love, the undisputed leader of the offense. This game serves as a live evaluation of Tune’s capability to be a reliable backup—a role that becomes exponentially more important in the win-or-go-home playoff atmosphere.

For Clayton Tune, Sunday is more than just a season finale; it’s a resume-builder. A strong performance against a division rival could solidify his place in the league as a capable backup, while a struggle may lead to further uncertainty. In the high-stakes world of the NFL, opportunities like this are rare, and Tune now has his chance to seize it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Clayton Tune starting over a healthy Jordan Love?

The Packers are prioritizing player health and rest with their playoff seeding likely set. While Jordan Love has been cleared from the concussion protocol, the team believes he is not at 100% and sees greater value in ensuring his full health for the postseason. This is a common strategy for playoff-bound teams in a meaningless final game.

What is Clayton Tune’s history with the Arizona Cardinals?

Tune was drafted by the Cardinals in 2023 and spent two seasons with the team. He appeared in 13 games with one start, completing 14 of 23 passes for 70 yards with two interceptions. He served as a depth quarterback behind Kyler Murray, with his most extensive action coming in the preseason.

Who will be the backup quarterback for the Packers in Week 18?

Veteran quarterback Desmond Ridder, recently signed to the practice squad, is expected to be elevated to the active roster to serve as Clayton Tune’s primary backup. Jordan Love will be dressed but is anticipated to be used only in an emergency situation.

How does this affect the Packers’ offensive strategy against Minnesota?

The game plan is expected to become more conservative. The Packers will likely rely heavily on their running game and short, high-percentage passes to manage the game and protect Tune. The emphasis will be on minimizing turnovers and controlling the clock, rather than opening up a deep, downfield passing attack.