Full Breakdown
Kyle McCord’s Preseason Finale: A Bid for a Packers Roster Spot
8/29/2026, 11:57:31 AM
Game Summary and Immediate Impact
In the preseason finale, the Green Bay Packers rallied from an 11-point deficit to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 42-38. Reserve quarterback Kyle McCord played the entire game after starters Jordan Love and Tyrod Taylor were rested. McCord completed 22 of 35 passes for 226 yards and threw four touchdowns, including a 28-yard strike to Kisean Johnson with 3:19 left that cut the lead to 38-35, and a 10-yard touchdown pass to Johnson with 20 seconds remaining to seal the win. The comeback featured a pivotal interception by Nyjalik Kelly that set up the final score.
Background: Preseason Roster Evaluation
Both teams used the matchup to evaluate depth players ahead of the final roster cuts that will occur within the next 48 hours. Coaches typically rest regular starters in the final preseason game to preserve health for the regular season, making the performance of fringe players especially consequential.
Key Players
- Kyle McCord — third-string quarterback, 2025 sixth-round draft pick, previously on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad.
- Matt LaFleur — head coach of the Packers, praised McCord’s poise and pocket presence.
- Jordan Love — starting quarterback, called plays for the Packers in the second half.
- J. Michael Sturdivant — wide receiver, led the Packers with six catches for 112 yards and a touchdown.
- Will Sheppard — return specialist, scored on an 81-yard punt return.
Data & Statistics
- Packers offense: 42 points, 326 passing yards allowed, 166 rushing yards allowed.
- McCord: 22/35, 226 yards, 4 TDs, 0 interceptions.
- Arizona quarterback Gardner Minshew II: 7/9, 126 yards, 1 TD before exiting; replacement Kedon Slovis: 21/35, 223 yards, 2 INTs, 1 TD.
- Arizona running back Evan Hull: 107 rushing yards, two touchdowns (including a 47-yard run).
- Packers special teams: Will Sheppard’s 81-yard punt return touchdown; rookie kicker Trey Smack made field goals of 36 and 37 yards, maintaining a perfect preseason record.
Official Statements & Responses
McCord acknowledged that his fate now rests with the coaching staff, stating that “it’s out of my control at this point” and that he
Wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant reflected on the uncertainty of the upcoming roster decisions, noting that “these next 48 hours, you don’t really know what’s going to happen.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's out of my control at this point,” — Kyle McCord
- “Was that not the most entertaining preseason game you’ve ever seen in your life?” — Matt LaFleur, packers coach
- “He told me right before halftime, ‘They’re going to let me call the plays in the second half,'” — Kyle McCord
- “These next 48 hours, you don’t really know what’s going to happen,” — J. Michael Sturdivant
What’s Next
The Cardinals travel to Los Angeles to face the Chargers next week, while the Packers host the Minnesota Vikings in their regular-season opener. Both teams will finalize their 53-man rosters before those matchups.
