BREAKING: Packers Star Suffers Serious Injury, Forcing Head Coach Matt LaFleur to Call It a “Major Concern”
GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN — The Packers’ preparations for their upcoming clash with Cincinnati were unexpectedly overshadowed this week by a sudden injury concern that sent ripples through the locker room. Head coach Matt LaFleur didn’t mince words when addressing the issue, describing it as a “major concern” — a phrase that quickly caught the attention of fans and analysts across the league. For a team aiming to keep momentum rolling, the timing couldn’t have been worse.
LaFleur’s comment sparked confusion almost immediately, leading to speculation about the seriousness of the situation. Some wondered if the coach’s tone hinted at deeper trouble behind closed doors. However, on Friday, LaFleur stepped in to clarify his remarks, blending seriousness with a touch of humor as he addressed reporters. “I’ve got to check my thesaurus apparently,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the media before shifting back to the matter at hand.
The player in question — kicker Brandon McManus — had reportedly injured his quad during practice on Wednesday. Despite the scare, McManus was quick to downplay concerns, telling reporters he “planned on playing” against the Bengals. His confidence contrasted sharply with LaFleur’s cautious tone, setting up a minor media storm that the coach later moved to calm. The dynamic between coach and kicker became the day’s biggest talking point in Green Bay.
LaFleur spoke candidly about his mindset regarding the incident, offering a glimpse into the emotional weight behind his initial reaction. “YOU NEVER WANT TO SEE ONE OF YOUR GUYS GO DOWN — NOT WHEN HE’S WORKED THIS HARD, NOT WHEN HE MEANS THIS MUCH TO THE LOCKER ROOM. WE’RE HURT, WE’RE WORRIED, BUT WE’RE GOING TO RALLY AROUND HIM LIKE FAMILY. THAT’S WHAT PACKERS FOOTBALL IS ALL ABOUT.” His words captured both empathy and resolve — the spirit he’s instilled since taking over as head coach.
BREAKING: Packers Star Suffers Serious Injury, Forcing Head Coach Matt LaFleur to Call It a “Major Concern” pic.twitter.com/FuLIrBXDzo
— Adam Schefler (@ScheflerAdamUs) October 11, 2025
As the laughter over his “thesaurus” comment faded, LaFleur elaborated on his concern. He compared a kicker’s leg injury to a quarterback injuring his throwing arm — not catastrophic, but critical. “You’re a kicker and your leg is bothering you,” he explained. “That’s a problem. Time will tell whether he can work through it or not.” The statement underscored the delicate balance between optimism and realism that defines NFL injury management.
McManus, a veteran specialist known for his composure, has been a steady hand for the Packers despite inconsistencies on special teams this season. The unit has struggled with protection issues, and LaFleur acknowledged that improving that area remains a top priority. For now, though, all eyes remain on McManus’ recovery — and whether he’ll be ready to suit up when Sunday arrives.
In a precautionary move, the Packers hosted tryouts for two potential replacements — Lucas Havrisik, formerly of the Rams, and six-year veteran Greg Joseph. Both kickers have experience under pressure, but neither would bring McManus’ familiarity with the team’s rhythm. The message from LaFleur’s staff was clear: the team is preparing for every scenario, no matter how hopeful the prognosis may be.
As Friday’s injury report listed McManus as “questionable,” the sense of uncertainty lingered. Fans are left holding their breath, waiting to see if one of Green Bay’s most reliable legs will take the field. Whether this week’s scare proves to be a minor hiccup or a turning point in the Packers’ season, one thing is certain — Matt LaFleur’s “major concern” has become the headline no one in Wisconsin wanted to read.
