The Green Bay Packers are riding high with an impressive streak of three consecutive wins, having managed a tie against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4. As the team continues to find its rhythm, one standout development has been the way they’ve coped with the absence of kicker Brandon McManus.
McManus has been sidelined for the last two games due to a quadriceps injury, but he has been labeled as “day-to-day.” In his stead, Lucas Havrisik was added to the roster just before the Packers’ Week 6 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Since joining the team, Havrisik has been perfect, not missing a single kick. His performance has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike about whether he should permanently take McManus’s spot.
On Thursday, McManus returned to practice for the first time since October 8, initiating what could be a significant turning point in his recovery. According to ESPN’s Rob Demovsky, McManus came to practice with his right quad wrapped but was able to shed it and participate in some warm-ups. While he appears to be making progress, it’s still uncertain when he’ll return to game action.
McManus, who stabilized the kicking position after joining the Packers last season, has a solid overall record, having made 20-of-21 field goals and all 30 extra points during an 11-game span. Although he started this season well, making 7-of-9 field goals and 10-of-11 extra points in the first four games, his performance had shown signs of wavering.
On the other hand, Havrisik has made the most of his opportunity, hitting all four field goals, including a franchise-record 61-yard field goal in the Week 7 win over the Arizona Cardinals, alongside a perfect six-for-six on extra points. While his past stint with the Los Angeles Rams was less successful, fans are intrigued by his youth and potential future as the team’s kicker.
If McManus is ready to return, it’s likely that the Packers would release Havrisik, as NFL teams generally do not carry multiple kickers. This decision could mark an abrupt end to McManus’s brief time with the Packers if the team opts for a change. Given the team’s history with kicker instability since Mason Crosby’s departure in 2022, selecting the right kicker is a critical task. The looming return of McManus may soon provide clarity in that regard, positioning the Packers for success in the remaining games of the season.
Amid the uncertainty, the Packers have showcased resilience, and the potential return of McManus adds an exciting layer to the team’s dynamics as they aim for continued success.