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Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack | Giants Sign Undrafted Rookies as Minicamp Kicks Off | Rob Gronkowski Reflects on 2020 Buccaneers as Best Skill-Set Team | Browns' Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah to Miss 2026 Season Due to Neck Injury | Vikings Consider Keenan Allen After Jauan Jennings Update | NFL Top Games & Packers Schedule: 2026 Season | Colts Release Veteran Cornerback Kenny Moore II After Trade Request | Steelers Likely Destination for Aaron Rodgers in 2026 | NFL Analyst's Free-Agent Matchmaker Targets Ravens & Steelers | Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack | Giants Sign Undrafted Rookies as Minicamp Kicks Off | Rob Gronkowski Reflects on 2020 Buccaneers as Best Skill-Set Team | Browns' Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah to Miss 2026 Season Due to Neck Injury | Vikings Consider Keenan Allen After Jauan Jennings Update | NFL Top Games & Packers Schedule: 2026 Season | Colts Release Veteran Cornerback Kenny Moore II After Trade Request | Steelers Likely Destination for Aaron Rodgers in 2026 | NFL Analyst's Free-Agent Matchmaker Targets Ravens & Steelers

NFL / Packers

Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack

The Green Bay Packers have released veteran kicker Brandon McManus after drafting rookie Trey Smack from Florida. This move signals a potential shift in the team's kicking strategy, focusing on the younger, newly drafted talent. Former All-...

Packers release K Brandon McManus
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Packers Release Veteran Kicker Brandon McManus After Drafting Trey Smack Image via NBC Sports

Key Insights

  • The Packers released Brandon McManus after selecting Trey Smack in the sixth round of the NFL Draft.
  • Trey Smack was the only kicker drafted in the 2026 NFL Draft.
  • Matt Stover recognized Smack's talent early on, noting his 'pro leg' when Smack was only 16.
  • Special teams coordinator Cam Achord values Smack's straight-ball accuracy, essential for playing in diverse weather conditions.
  • McManus had been with Green Bay since 2024, hitting 24-of-30 field goals in 2025.

In-Depth Analysis

The Packers' decision to release Brandon McManus comes as a surprise to some, given his recent performance and the $1 million roster bonus he received in March. However, the drafting of Trey Smack signals a clear intention to transition to a younger, potentially more cost-effective option at kicker.

Trey Smack's journey to the NFL is noteworthy. After initially focusing on lacrosse, the COVID-19 pandemic led him to concentrate on kicking. His talent was quickly recognized by Matt Stover, who guided him on kicking mechanics. Smack's accuracy and leg strength make him a promising prospect for the Packers.

The kicker position is crucial in close games, and the Packers are betting on Smack's ability to perform under pressure. The competition during training camp between Smack and Lucas Havrisik will be intense, with Smack being the favorite due to his draft status.

Historical Context: The drafting of a kicker is relatively rare, making Smack's selection and subsequent opportunity notable. The Packers' willingness to move on from a veteran kicker demonstrates a commitment to building through the draft and trusting their scouting evaluations.

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FAQ

Q: Why did the Packers release Brandon McManus?

Q: Who is Trey Smack?

Q: What did Matt Stover say about Trey Smack?

Takeaways

  • For Packers fans, this move signals a focus on developing young talent and potentially saving money in the long run. For aspiring kickers, Trey Smack's story highlights the importance of seizing opportunities and the impact of specialized coaching. Key actions: Keep an eye on Trey Smack's performance during training camp and the regular season to see if the Packers' investment pays off. Follow the Packers' transactions and roster updates to stay informed about their special teams.

Discussion

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Disclaimer

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