JUST IN: Packers’ New Signing Brandon McManus Suffers Devastating ACL Tear, GM Brian Gutekunst Reveals.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Green Bay Packers’ newly signed kicker Brandon McManus has suffered an ACL tear during a recent practice session, as confirmed by General Manager Brian Gutekunst. The news comes as a major blow to the Packers’ special teams unit and raises serious concerns about their kicking game as they gear up for the rest of the season.
McManus, a veteran kicker with a reputation for clutch performances, was signed by the Packers this offseason to bring stability and experience to the team’s kicking unit. He was expected to play a pivotal role in critical moments, especially with Green Bay’s offense transitioning under the leadership of quarterback Jordan Love following Aaron Rodgers’ departure. The signing of McManus was seen as a key strategic move to boost the Packers’ chances of competing in close games, where reliable kicking is often the difference between a win and a loss.
Gutekunst, visibly shaken while speaking to reporters, described the injury as “heartbreaking,” especially given the hopes the team had for McManus’ role in the coming season.
“Brandon has been an incredible asset to the team since day one,” Gutekunst said during a press conference. “His leadership, experience, and ability to handle pressure in key situations made him the perfect addition to our roster. Unfortunately, injuries like this are part of the game, but that doesn’t make the news any less painful. Our thoughts are with Brandon as he begins his recovery, and we’ll support him every step of the way.”
The injury reportedly occurred during a routine practice drill when McManus planted his leg awkwardly after a kickoff. Medical evaluations later confirmed the worst: a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), an injury that typically sidelines players for an entire season. The team has not yet announced a specific timetable for his recovery, but it is widely expected that McManus will miss the remainder of the 2024 season.
This development leaves the Packers in a difficult position as they scramble to find a replacement kicker with only weeks left before the start of the regular season. While there are a few free agents available, the team may also explore potential trades or rely on an in-house option from the practice squad.
For McManus, who has enjoyed a successful career spanning nearly a decade, the injury marks a significant setback. Known for his powerful leg and long-range accuracy, the 32-year-old kicker was expected to be a cornerstone of Green Bay’s special teams. He previously spent eight seasons with the Denver Broncos, where he helped the team secure a Super Bowl 50 victory.
The Packers’ special teams unit, which has been an area of concern in recent years, was counting on McManus to solidify the position. With his injury, the team now faces uncertainty and will have to adjust quickly to ensure they have a reliable kicker for the upcoming season.
Packers fans, who were eager to see McManus in action, will now have to wait and hope for his full recovery. As Gutekunst put it, “This is a tough blow for all of us, but knowing Brandon’s character and resilience, we believe he’ll come back stronger than ever.”
The road to recovery is long for McManus, but his determination and the support of the Packers organization will surely play a vital role in his eventual return to the field.