Packers releasing quarterback Kurt Benkert

The Packers are releasing Kurt Benkert and will keep only two quarterbacks on the initial 53-man roster in 2021.

The Green Bay Packers will keep only two quarterbacks on the 53-man roster to start the 2021 season.

The team is releasing third-string quarterback Kurt Benkert on Tuesday, per Paul Bretl of Dairyland Express. The news was confirmed by Bill Huber of SI.com.

Benkert, who was signed after a tryout in May, completed 33 of 48 passes for 300 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions during three preseason games, including a start against the New York Jets. He completed 68.8 percent of his passes, averaged 6.3 yards per attempt and had a passer rating of 75.0.

With NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers and first-round pick Jordan Love on the roster, the Packers had no need for a third quarterback on the roster.

However, there’s a good chance Benkert will return on the Packers practice squad if he clear waivers. He displayed a strong arm and an ability to create during three preseason games, so the possibility exists that another team will want him as a backup on the 53-man roster and claim him on Wednesday. If not, the Packers should welcome him back as the No. 3 on the practice squad.

Benkert, 26, went undrafted out of Virginia in 2018. He spent three seasons on the practice squad of the Atlanta Falcons before arriving in Green Bay.

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