Trey Smack's Preseason Breakthrough
Green Bay Packers Rookie Kicker Trey Smack Impresses Fans with Big Field Goals in Preseason Debut
Green Bay Packers fans got an early reason to cheer this preseason. Rookie kicker Trey Smack drilled a 58-yard field goal on the very first drive of the team's preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Wausau Daily Herald. The long boot immediately set a celebratory tone among a fan base still stinging from veteran Brandon McManus's shaky performances.
Smack also converted a 37-yard field goal later in the game, after a roughing the snapper penalty by Pittsburgh gave the offense a second chance, Post Crescent reported. The rookie is the first kicker the Packers have drafted since Mason Crosby back in 2007.
McManus Struggles Opened the Door for Smack
Brandon McManus had a rough go of it this offseason, drawing sharp criticism from Packers fans and putting his roster spot in question. His struggles created a real opening for Smack to step in and make a case for himself, according to Wisconsin Rapids Tribune. The fan base had grown frustrated, and pressure was building for the team to find a reliable answer at kicker.
McManus's issues made the kicker competition one of the most-watched storylines of Packers camp. Green Bay needed someone fans could trust on big kicks. Smack's 58-yard make in his first real game action was exactly the kind of statement the team was looking for, Marshfield News-Herald noted.
Smack Bounced Back After Rough Training Camp Start
Smack did not have the smoothest start to his first NFL training camp. Early on, he dealt with inconsistency that raised some concerns about whether he was ready. But the rookie steadied himself as camp went on, JSON Online reported. His momentum is now clearly pointing in the right direction.
The turning point came on Family Night, Green Bay's public practice event. Smack made 6 of 7 kicks that night, winning over the crowd and quieting doubters. That showing gave him a strong platform heading into the preseason game against Pittsburgh, according to FDL Reporter.
58-Yard Boot Sparks Instant Fan Excitement Online
When Smack split the uprights from 58 yards out, Packers fans reacted fast on social media. The kick showed not just accuracy but serious leg strength — 58 yards is no easy task at any level of football. Fans pointed to the boot as proof the Packers may have found their long-term kicker, Yahoo Sports reported.
The 37-yard make later in the game only added to the excitement. Getting two clean field goals in one preseason game, including a long one, gave Smack real momentum. Packers fans are now watching his every kick with growing optimism heading into the regular season.
Packers Haven't Drafted a Kicker Since Mason Crosby in 2007
Smack's draft selection was already historic before he kicked a single ball. Green Bay had not used a draft pick on a kicker since selecting Mason Crosby in 2007, according to Wausau Daily Herald. Crosby went on to become one of the most beloved Packers ever, spending his entire career in Green Bay.
Those are big shoes to fill. But Smack's early preseason showing suggests the Packers may have found a worthy successor. If he keeps making kicks from 50-plus yards, it won't be long before Green Bay fans embrace him the same way they did Crosby, Post Crescent reported.
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