Packers Kicker Havrisik Ready to Step Up

The Green Bay Packers' kicking situation took an unexpected turn this week as veteran Brandon McManus was officially listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the New York Giants due to a recurring right quad injury. This opens the door for Lucas Havrisik, who has been nothing short of spectacular in limited action, to once again handle kicking duties for the Packers.

Havrisik's Perfect Start

Since joining the Packers on October 11th, Havrisik has made the most of his opportunities. The undrafted kicker has been perfect on all 10 field goal attempts and 6 extra point attempts across two starts. His performance includes clutch kicks in relief of McManus during Weeks 5 and 6, where he helped secure crucial victories.

The Record-Breaking 61-Yarder

Havrisik's most memorable moment came against the Arizona Cardinals, where he booted a franchise-record 61-yard field goal as time expired in the first half. This historic kick not only set a new Packers record but also demonstrated the powerful leg that has caught the attention of coaches and fans alike. The kick traveled through the uprights with plenty of distance to spare, cementing Havrisik's place in Packers history.

McManus's Struggles

While Havrisik flourished, McManus has faced significant challenges since returning from the same quad injury that sidelined him for two games. Since rejoining the lineup, McManus has converted just 4 of 8 field goals (50%), including a crucial miss from 64 yards that would have sent the Monday night game against Philadelphia to overtime. His inconsistency on longer kicks (3-for-9 from 40+ yards) has been particularly concerning.

"Pretty much no pain, didn't feel anything in my leg," McManus stated earlier this week, though his placement on the injury report suggests otherwise.

The Road Ahead

For Havrisik, this opportunity represents a chance to solidify his place in the NFL after a journey that included stints with the Rams and Browns. The 26-year-old Arizona product spent 2024 away from football, considering a teaching career before the Packers called. Now, he's seized his chance with remarkable precision.

The Packers' decision to keep both kickers on the roster despite McManus's return has paid off, creating healthy competition. Havrisik's performance has put pressure on McManus, who signed a three-year extension in the offseason but is currently experiencing the lowest field-goal percentage of his career (64.7%).

As the Packers prepare for a critical stretch of games, their kicking stability remains a question mark. Havrisik's perfect record provides confidence, but McManus's experience and contract suggest he'll have the opportunity to reclaim his role once healthy. For now, though, all eyes will be on the Packers' surprise kicker who's ready to make his mark.