Packers Rookie Kicker Delivers Winning Field Goal in Surprise Role

GREEN BAY, Wis. – Rookie kicker Lucas Havrisik made a game-winning 39-yard field goal for the Green Bay Packers, sealing a 27-18 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Havrisik, who was signed the day before the game, stepped in after veteran kicker Brandon McManus suffered a right quad injury.

Coach Matt LaFleur was asked what he was thinking when he chose Havrisik for the crucial kick. “What was going through your head? It was probably the same thing going through mine,” LaFleur said. Havrisik, who only learned he would be kicking 90 minutes before the game, focused on treating every kick with discipline, regardless of the situation.

“You’ve got to discipline your mind to treat every kick the same,” Havrisik shared after the game. Despite the pressure, he made a kick that helped the Packers overcome a resilient Bengals team. After the game, his teammates rewarded him with the game ball. Running back Josh Jacobs admitted, “I don’t even know his name…but he came in and made some big-time kicks for us.”

McManus’s injury was first reported as a major concern after he felt discomfort during practice. While he participated in warm-ups and attempted kicks from various distances, the coaching staff ultimately decided it was best for him to sit out the game.

During his pregame routine, McManus successfully made a 50-yard field goal but was still dealing with pain. “I went through my usual warm-ups just so they could see it. I knew I was going to be in pain playing through it,” he said, summarizing the decision process made by the coaching staff.

The Packers signed Havrisik after evaluating him in practice due to uncertainty around McManus’s recovery. Havrisik, 26, had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Rams and was prepared for this unprecedented opportunity. “I treated it as if I was playing and really not thinking of anything else,” he stated.

Interestingly, Havrisik has connections with some Packers players, including long snapper Matt Orzech, which eased his transition into an unfamiliar role. He noted that this connection helped him feel at home.

Havrisik’s preparation and faith played crucial roles in his performance. “I rely on the Lord for all my strength. It’s a big part of my life,” he said. As the team prepares for back-to-back road games, the future of the kicker position remains uncertain, but Havrisik has shown he is ready.