Green Bay -- The Green Bay Packers have officially released veteran kicker Brandon McManus, signaling a definitive shift at the kicking position just days after drafting Florida kicker Trey Smack in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Confirmed on or after May 7, this roster move opens the door for the rookie Smack to take over immediate kicking duties for the Packers, ending a competition that many expected would pit a seasoned veteran against the promising newcomer.
A Shift in Strategy at Kicker
The Packers' decision to draft Trey Smack marked a rare investment in the kicking position by general manager Brian Gutekunst, who has predominantly chosen free agent or undrafted options in previous years. By spending a sixth-round pick on Smack--only the second kicker drafted by the Packers since Mason Crosby in 2007--the organization made a clear statement regarding their commitment to youth and potential upside over tried veteran experience.
McManus, a 12-year NFL veteran best known for his time with the Denver Broncos, was signed by Green Bay midway through the 2024 season to stabilize the position following a turbulent period that saw Anders Carlson and Greg Joseph fail to provide consistent production. During his tenure in Green Bay, McManus posted solid numbers, converting 85.7% of his field goals in 2024 and improving to 88.2% in 2025, missing just two attempts inside 50 yards over the span. However, at 34 years old and with a $1 million roster bonus due in March 2026, the team evidently saw an opportunity to reduce salary cap space and inject new life into the position.
Releasing McManus saves the Packers around $1.8 million against the cap and clears the path for Smack, who impressed the front office with both his leg strength and mental toughness during the evaluation process.
Introducing Trey Smack
Trey Smack arrives in Green Bay as one of college football's most promising kicking prospects. The Florida Gators standout earned Lou Groza Award semifinalist honors in 2025, hitting 19-of-23 field goals (82.6%) and a perfect 42-of-42 on extra points. Notably, Smack demonstrated impressive range, connecting on kicks from 54 yards twice and a long of 56 yards against Tennessee.
His smooth kicking motion and competitive edge have drawn comparisons to reliable NFL veterans. He also has experience punting in emergency situations, but the Packers have secured Daniel Whelan as their punter, allowing Smack to focus exclusively on placekicking duties.
Senior Packers personnel credited Smack's mental preparation and technical consistency as key factors in their decision, highlighting his ability to maintain focus in challenging conditions--a vital trait when kicking under Lambeau Field's notorious weather.
Packers' Kicking Depth Chart
With McManus released, the Packers' kicking roster now stands as:
- Kicker: Trey Smack (rookie)
- Backup Kicker: Lucas Havrisik
- Punter: Daniel Whelan
- Long Snapper: Matt Orzech
Havrisik, who has prior practice squad experience and brief NFL game exposure, remains in place as a camp competitor and insurance policy, though expectations heavily favor Smack as the Week 1 starter.
Head coach Matt LaFleur and special teams coordinator Cam Achord will monitor Smack's development closely, particularly as the Packers' offense, led by quarterback Jordan Love, is projected to be high-powered but will need clutch kicking performances to secure victories in the competitive NFC North.
Legacy of Packers Kickers
The Packers' kicking position has been historically stable, largely thanks to Mason Crosby's legendary 16-year tenure, which included franchise records and memorable playoff game-winners. Since Crosby's departure in 2023, the team has cycled through several veterans and short-term options, but none have matched his longevity or consistency.
Drafting Trey Smack represents an attempt to regain that long-term answer, banking on a promising young athlete to fill those sizeable shoes. While comparisons to Crosby are naturally premature, Smack's physical tools and poise offer hope that he can carve out a successful career in Green Bay.
What This Means Moving Forward
The release of Brandon McManus is not a repudiation of his performance or professionalism but reflects the Packers' broader strategy of roster management focused on youth, salary cap efficiency, and long-term potential. McManus is likely to find opportunities elsewhere in the league, as his veteran presence and playoff experience remain valuable commodities.
For Green Bay, the kicking position is now officially in new hands. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Trey Smack to see if he can convert potential into consistent production and become the reliable game-winner the Packers desperately need.
As the echoes of past seasons fade, the Packers face a new kicking chapter--driven by a rookie with a boom in his leg and confidence in his craft, ready to take on the pressures of Lambeau Field and the heights of NFL success.
Go Pack Go!