Kicking Instability: The Packers' Ongoing Search for a Reliable Foot
The Kicker Carousel: A Recent History of Instability for the Green Bay Packers
In recent seasons, the Green Bay Packers have grappled with a significant lack of continuity at the kicker position. Since 2023, no fewer than four different specialists have taken the field for regular-season contests, a stark contrast to the preceding sixteen years, which saw the unwavering presence of a single kicker.
Mason Crosby's Enduring Legacy: A Benchmark for Kicking Excellence
From 2007 to 2022, Mason Crosby was the epitome of consistency and dependability for the Packers, handling every kicking duty during that impressive span. His tenure established a high bar for the position, setting a standard that his successors have found difficult to match.
Anders Carlson's Brief Stint: A Rookie's Unsuccessful Attempt to Fill Big Shoes
Following Crosby's departure, the team's first attempt to find a new long-term solution came with the selection of rookie Anders Carlson in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite the initial hope, Carlson's performance was marred by numerous missed kicks, including a crucial one in a playoff loss, leading to his eventual release after just one season.
Brayden Narveson's Short-Lived Opportunity: A Promising Leg That Couldn't Stick
Another rookie, Brayden Narveson, was given a chance after Carlson's exit. Signed after training camp with another team, Narveson’s powerful leg initially intrigued the Packers. However, his tenure was brief, lasting only six games due to a low field goal conversion rate, and he has not played in the NFL since.
Brandon McManus's Experienced Turn: A Veteran's Ups and Downs
Turning to experience, the Packers brought in Super Bowl veteran Brandon McManus. His stint began promisingly, with game-winning kicks in his first two outings and an impressive 20-of-21 field goal record in his initial season. This led to a contract extension, but his subsequent season was plagued by injury and critical misses in a playoff defeat, ultimately costing him his job.
Lucas Havrisik's Impressive Interlude: A Fill-in's Record-Breaking Performance
Lucas Havrisik stepped in admirably during an injury to McManus, even setting a franchise record with a 61-yard field goal. His initial performances were strong, but after McManus's return and some challenging conditions in later games, Havrisik was moved to the practice squad and eventually cut before the next training camp.
The Next Chapter: Trey Smack and the Search for Lasting Stability
With the revolving door continuing, the Packers drafted Trey Smack, a Florida product, who had a flawless debut in the preseason opener. The team is now hopeful that Smack can bring the much-needed stability to the kicker position, aiming to replicate the long-term success once provided by Mason Crosby.
Beyond Green Bay: Where Are the Former Kickers Now?
Anders Carlson went on to play for the 49ers and Jets in 2024, later competing in the United Football League where he converted 6 of 9 field goal attempts. Brayden Narveson, after his departure from the Packers, had an unsuccessful tryout in the Canadian Football League and has not kicked professionally since. Brandon McManus is currently not on an NFL roster for training camp. Lucas Havrisik has also not signed with any team during the current preseason. Greg Joseph, who competed for the Packers in 2024, played for three different NFL teams that season but has not been in the league since.
