Ever since Mason Crosby’s departure, the Packers have struggled to find consistency in the kicking game.
Anders Carlson was the first to take over in 2023, but plenty of mistakes led to Carlson’s Packers tenure ending the following offseason.
After starting the 2024 season with Brayden Narveson, Brandon McManus was brought in midway through the season. From the start, McManus brought a spark back to the Packers’ kicking unit. Unfortunately, after McManus received an extension the following spring, consistency once again became an issue.
That led to another decision by the Packers to move on from McManus this offseason.
Part of the reason why they felt they could let McManus go was because in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the Packers selected 23-year-old University of Florida kicker Trey Smack in hopes of solving their prior kicking issues.
Trey Smack’s Success at Florida
After taking over as Florida’s starting kicker during his sophomore season in 2023, Smack made an immediate impact.
In his first two seasons as the starter, he made 25 total appearances. He went 35-for-42 on field goals, including 5-for-7 from 50-plus yards. He was also a perfect 73-for-73 on extra points during those two seasons.
Smack earned third-team All-SEC honors and played in all 12 games during his final season. In 2025, he went 18-for-22 on field goals, including 5-for-6 from 50-plus yards, proving his long-range efficiency.
To cap it off, Smack set a new program record with ten career field goals longer than 50 yards.
These numbers highlight the potential improvement Smack brings to the Packers kicking unit.
Smack Shines in Preseason Debut
As reports emerged from training camp, Smack went 3-for-5 during his first live field-goal period.
However, Smack did nothing but prove he is the right man for the job after the Packers’ first preseason game.
The rookie opened the game with a 58-yard field goal on the opening drive, but the conversion didn’t count due to a personal foul on the Steelers. That did not slow him down, though, as Smack would get plenty of opportunities shortly after.
He lined up for kicks from 37, 58, and 38 yards. Smack converted all three attempts for a perfect night.
It may only be the preseason, but Smack’s impressive debut gives Packers fans an exciting first look at what he is bringing to Green Bay.
The Packers have been searching for their next reliable kicker since Crosby’s departure, and Smack has already shown he has the leg to make a difference in Green Bay.
His success at Florida and strong preseason debut are both promising signs. Smack will look to carry that success the rest of the way and give the Packers their long-awaited, definitive answer at kicker.
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