Packers rookie kicker’s camp struggles leads to eye-opening GM admission

The Green Bay Packers are exploring the addition of another kicker as rookie Trey Smack continues to navigate an uneven start to training camp, though general manager Brian Gutekunst emphasized the organization remains encouraged by the young specialist’s development.

Speaking Thursday, Gutekunst acknowledged the team would like to carry a second kicker after injuries altered its roster plans.

“Brian Gutekunst says he’d like to have a second kicker on his roster. Long snapper Matt Orzech’s injury that placed him on PUP changed the calculus, because #Packers had to bring in second snapper. He likes how Trey Smack is progressing, but still wanting to add second kicker,” USA Today’s Ryan Wood reported on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The admission comes after Smack experienced a difficult opening stretch of camp. According to Bobby Santoro of Packers Talk, the rookie has missed multiple field-goal attempts, including one during the closing moments of a two-minute drill, drawing increased attention from a fan base still searching for long-term stability at the position following Mason Crosby’s departure.

Despite the early inconsistencies, there is little indication Green Bay has lost confidence in Smack, whom it selected with the No. 216 overall pick in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft after trading up. The Packers viewed Smack as the top kicker in the class following a standout career at Florida, where he showcased NFL-caliber range, leg strength and poise in pressure situations.

Packers remain patient with Trey Smack despite early training camp inconsistencies

Like many first-year specialists, Smack is adjusting to faster NFL operations while developing timing with a new holder and long snapper. Those details often play a significant role in a kicker’s early development but receive far less attention than makes and misses during open practices.

The Packers also understand that strong or poor training camp performances do not always translate into the regular season. Veteran Brandon McManus was highly consistent throughout last year’s camp before injuries affected his performance later in the season.

Green Bay still has several weeks of training camp and three preseason games remaining before final roster decisions are made. While Smack’s start has been uneven, the Packers appear committed to allowing the rookie time to develop while also seeking additional competition at the position.

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