The Green Bay Packers faced significant challenges in their quest to find a reliable kicker after parting ways with Mason Crosby, their all-time leading scorer, following the 2022 NFL season. Crosby, who had been a cornerstone of the Packers’ special teams for over a decade, left big shoes to fill, and the team’s efforts to replace him proved to be a rollercoaster journey.
To address the vacancy, the Packers selected Anders Carlson in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, Carlson’s rookie season was marked by inconsistency. He led the league in missed kicks and managed a field goal accuracy rate of just 81.8%, with an extra point conversion rate of 87.2%. These struggles left the Packers questioning whether Carlson could be the long-term solution at kicker. To add to the competition, they brought in veteran Greg Joseph during the 2024 preseason. Unfortunately, Joseph also failed to meet expectations, leaving the Packers in a tough spot. By the end of the preseason, both Carlson and Joseph were released, leaving the team without a clear answer at the position.
In an effort to stabilize their kicking game, the Packers signed Brayden Narveson, a promising young kicker who had been waived by the Tennessee Titans. Narveson initially showed potential, converting all his extra point attempts. However, his field goal accuracy left much to be desired, hovering just above 70% through six games. The lack of consistency prompted the Packers to explore other options, as the reliability of their kicking game remained a critical concern.
The turning point came when Green Bay turned to free agent Brandon McManus. McManus, a seasoned veteran with a strong track record, had been released by the Washington Commanders earlier in the season after resolving a legal issue. Recognizing his potential, the Packers quickly signed him, hoping his experience and proven ability could provide the stability they desperately needed. McManus’s impact was immediate and transformative.
In his first 11 games with the Packers, McManus delivered a stellar performance, achieving the second-best single-season field goal percentage in franchise history. His clutch kicking provided a sense of security that had been missing since Crosby’s departure. McManus not only excelled in routine situations but also displayed remarkable poise under pressure, converting several game-winning kicks that proved pivotal in the Packers’ playoff push. His arrival rejuvenated the special teams unit and restored confidence among both players and fans.
Looking ahead, the Packers appear to have found their solution at kicker in Brandon McManus. His consistency and professionalism have solidified his place as a key contributor to the team’s success. While the journey to find Crosby’s replacement was fraught with challenges, the Packers’ perseverance ultimately paid off. With McManus anchoring the special teams, Green Bay can focus on other areas of improvement as they strive to remain competitive in the NFL. Fans can now look forward to a more dependable kicking game, a crucial component of the team’s overall strategy.
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