Packers kicker Brandon McManus has hit the injury report with a doubtful tag for tomorrow’s game against the Giants. For all intents and purposes fans should prepare to see Lucas Havrisik in his place, which isn’t the worst news in the world. A quad injury has clearly hindered McManus in recent weeks. His limitations were painfully apparent against the Eagles. McManus’ only attempt of the game, a 64-yarder with zeroes on the clock, skewed way left, way short – an embarrassment. McManus also missed a kick the week before in a 3-point loss to Carolina.
Of course, having a bum leg isn’t the kicker’s fault. If he’s hurt, he’s hurt. What’s infuriating and downright bizarre is that the Packers would even ask him to go out there when they have a healthy kicker in reserve. Lucas Havrisik, by the way, is 4-4 on field goals (including a 61-yarder) and 6-6 on extra points in the two games he’s been active.
Oct 12, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers kicker Lucas Havrisik (35) kicks a field goal with punter Daniel Whelan (19) in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Saturday’s news only exacerbated the frustrations of fans who have questioned why McManus is kicking hurt, in the first place, and why coach Matt LaFleur can’t ever seem to just be upfront about the reality of the situation.
Carousel of kicker chaos continues in Week 11
It’s unknown, of course, if something happened during the week to aggravate McManus’ injury. Did the decision come down to that, or did the Packers finally admit to themselves that Havrisik is probably a better option while McManus recovers? Many saw the update as evidence for the latter.
With how LaFleur has beaten around the bush, not even on the same page with his starting kicker, fans were quick to call him out on social media. LaFleur admitted earlier this season that he, quote, doesn’t talk to kickers. Naturally, that didn’t go over well then and it only looks worse after McManus’ struggles in recent weeks. The whole thing is just odd and confusing.
Maybe MLF should talk to kickers. Probably would have one additional win
— JonNoH (@JonNoH_Williams) November 15, 2025
Can we get a serious honest answer from Matt here next week on McManus? I find it VERY difficult to believe he’s been anything close to 100% this whole time which makes it all the more perplexing that they continue to trot him out there.
— Brian Schwetschenau (@Schwets_) November 15, 2025
This makes exactly 0 sense given the last several weeks worth of contradictory statements and at least 1 blown game, and is therefore completely on-brand for HC Matt LaFleur 😑
Regardless, it’s still #GoPackGo
— James (@chessandpoker) November 15, 2025
lol confirms McManus has been playing hurt the last month, cue the circus music
— NB (@nick_JB23) November 15, 2025
Hate to see anyone injured but Lucas is the smart choice
— David (@ThisPackersFan) November 15, 2025
Maybe Havrisik will give them an actual chance. On the other hand, maybe he’ll show why the Packers were reluctant to promote him over McManus. In any case, it’s hard to fault switching from a hurt incumbent kicker who has missed 35% of his field goals on the season.
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