Love, who had his left thumb taped during Monday's practice, tried to play through the injury before ultimately deciding to have the procedure. Gutekunst added that Love will be ready for Week 1 against the NFC North rival Detroit Lions on Sept. 7. The Packers have a joint practice at the Indianapolis Colts on Thursday before Saturday's preseason game. Last year, he played just one series in the first preseason game. "It's a tough balance, but at the same time the goals we're trying to accomplish require work and you've got to play," Gutekunst said.