Packers Show Patience with Rookie Kicker Trey Smack

The Green Bay Packers are focusing on developing rookie kicker Trey Smack, as stated by general manager Brian Gutekunst during a recent training camp press conference. The team traded two seventh-round picks to draft Smack in the sixth round, indicating their belief in his potential despite previous challenges at the kicker position.

Since parting ways with Mason Crosby, the Packers have cycled through several kickers, including Anders Carlson and Brandon McManus, without finding lasting stability. Gutekunst acknowledged the urgency for improvement, particularly after playoff failures where missed kicks have cost the team crucial games.

While expressing confidence in Smack, Gutekunst also noted the need for patience, emphasizing that performance will ultimately dictate the timeline for his development. The Packers have made roster moves, including releasing McManus and cutting Lucas Havrisik, to support Smack as their primary kicker moving forward.