The Green Bay Packers have decided to release seasoned kicker Brandon McManus, a move that follows the team's selection of University of Florida kicker Trey Smack in the recent draft. McManus's departure marks a significant change for the Packers' special teams unit as they look to the future with their new acquisition.
Packers Make Kicking Change, Release Veteran Brandon McManus
Green Bay, Wisconsin - On Friday, May 8, 2026, the Green Bay Packers officially announced the release of their veteran placekicker, Brandon McManus, as reported by ESPN. This decision comes shortly after the team drafted Trey Smack, a promising kicker from the University of Florida, in the sixth round of the NFL draft last month.
McManus, 34, concluded his second season with the Packers in 2025, where he successfully converted 24 out of 30 field goal attempts and 32 out of 33 extra point tries. A notable setback for McManus, however, occurred in a crucial 31-27 wild-card playoff defeat against their fierce rivals, the Chicago Bears, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. During this game, he missed both of his field goal attempts, from 55 and 44 yards, which proved costly for the team.
Before joining the Packers, McManus had a distinguished career, including winning Super Bowl 50 with the Denver Broncos, where he played for nine seasons (2014-2022). He also spent a season with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2023. Currently, McManus holds an impressive fifth rank among active NFL players in total points scored (1,265) and field goals made (297). His career highlights include 51 field goals from 50 yards or longer, with a personal best of 61 yards in 2021.
Trey Smack, 22, arrives in Green Bay with a strong collegiate record from his four seasons with the Gators, having made 53 of 64 field goals (an 82.8% success rate) and 100 of 101 extra points.
This strategic roster adjustment by the Packers signals a clear intent to rejuvenate their special teams, placing their trust in the younger talent of Trey Smack to carry the kicking duties forward. The move reflects the competitive nature of professional football, where teams constantly seek to optimize their rosters for future success.