BREAKING: Packers unexpectedly sign former Rams kicker as doubts grow over starting kicker’s injury ahead of tomorrow’s game vs. Bengals
The Green Bay Packers have made a surprise roster move just one day before their highly anticipated matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals. In a development that caught many by surprise, the team added a new kicker to its active roster — a decision that immediately raised questions about the health of their current starter. With uncertainty looming over the special teams unit, Sunday’s game now carries more intrigue than ever.
The timing of the move is notable, coming late in the week when most rosters are typically set. Sources indicate that Green Bay’s front office had been exploring contingency plans after midweek practices revealed potential issues with their primary kicker. The decision underscores how fragile roster stability can be in the NFL, particularly at such a specialized position where reliability is everything.
Enter Lucas Havrisik — the former Los Angeles Rams kicker now finding himself thrust into the spotlight. Havrisik, who went undrafted in 2022 out of Arizona, has bounced around several teams, including the Colts, Browns, and Bills. His most extensive NFL action came last season with the Rams, where he hit 15 of 20 field goals and all but three extra points. Known for his strong leg but inconsistent accuracy from long range, he represents both risk and upside for the Packers.
BREAKING: Packers unexpectedly sign former Rams kicker as doubts grow over starting kicker’s injury ahead of tomorrow’s game vs. Bengals pic.twitter.com/G3vyuQDZXr
— Adam Schefler (@ScheflerAdamUs) October 12, 2025
“I plan on playing,” said Brandon McManus confidently when asked about his availability following a right quadriceps injury suffered earlier in the week. The veteran kicker, who has been one of the league’s most consistent scorers, noted that while the injury bothered him during kicks, it wasn’t painful during regular movement. Special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia added, “He’s been through this before and feels like he can go.” Still, Green Bay’s decision to bring in Havrisik suggests lingering concern.
McManus’ injury reportedly occurred during Wednesday’s practice, when he felt what he described as a “tug” in his leg. He did not practice Thursday and was limited Friday — typically his key preparation day. Though the team remains hopeful he can suit up, the situation evokes a sense of déjà vu: McManus suffered a similar issue in 2022 while with Denver but still managed to play, converting multiple field goals that week. This time, however, Green Bay appears less willing to gamble without a safety net.
Havrisik’s signing gives the Packers insurance should McManus be unable to go or re-aggravate his injury midgame. Coaches praised Havrisik’s composure under pressure, particularly referencing his 22-yard game-winning field goal for the Rams against the Seahawks last year. While not yet a household name, he has shown flashes of poise that could prove valuable if called upon suddenly on Sunday.
According to reports from ESPN, there remains “a decent chance” McManus will still play, but the team’s cautious approach reflects how critical special teams performance can be in close contests. The Packers cannot afford missteps in a tightly contested NFC race, and having a capable replacement on standby could be the difference between a win and a costly defeat.
As the Packers prepare for kickoff, all eyes will be on warmups — and specifically, who takes the first set of kicks. Whether it’s the seasoned McManus pushing through discomfort or Havrisik making his Green Bay debut, the decision could carry major implications. For now, one thing is certain: in a league where even the smallest tweak can change a team’s trajectory, Green Bay isn’t leaving anything to chance.
