In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through Green Bay, questions are rapidly mounting about the status of kicker Brandon McManus, whose lingering groin issue has suddenly become the center of Week 12 drama. With a divisional showdown against the Minnesota Vikings just days away, the Packers may be forced into a critical roster decision — one that could shape their playoff trajectory.
Head coach Matt LaFleur, usually calm and controlled in front of the cameras, delivered a noticeably firm and pointed message Wednesday afternoon when pressed about McManus’ availability.
“We’re evaluating everything. And I mean everything,” LaFleur said. “If we believe a move is necessary to help this team win on Sunday, we won’t hesitate.”
Those words — repeated several times — sparked immediate speculation that the Packers could be preparing to place McManus on Injured Reserve, a move that would sideline the veteran kicker for at least four weeks. For a team clawing its way back into NFC relevance, the implications are enormous.
A Growing Concern Behind the Scenes
According to internal team sources, McManus has been battling tightness and discomfort for over a week, but the pain reportedly intensified during Tuesday’s closed practice session. The medical staff has not ruled out IR, and the Packers have quietly begun evaluating available kickers.
The issue isn’t just the injury — it’s the timing.
Green Bay is entering the most pivotal stretch of its season with games against the Vikings, Lions, and Dolphins. With every matchup carrying postseason consequences, the margin for error shrinks dramatically. A kicker operating at less than 100% is a risk LaFleur seems unwilling to take.
McManus, who has been reliable for most of the year, has not yet spoken publicly about his condition. But players in the locker room acknowledged concern.
“Brandon’s tough, man,” one Packers veteran said. “But this part of the season… you can’t be 70 or 80 percent. Every point matters.”
Packers Exploring Backup Options — Including a Familiar Name
If McManus does land on IR, the Packers may need to sign a kicker immediately. League insiders say Green Bay has already contacted several free agents and could bring in at least two for workouts before Friday.
One name that has surfaced early: Ramiz Ahmed, a former Packers preseason standout with familiarity in the system. Another possibility is veteran Mason Crosby, though league reporters have downplayed the likelihood of a reunion — for now.
LaFleur kept his comments intentionally vague but didn’t deny that the team is preparing for all scenarios.
“You always have contingency plans in this league,” he said. “You have to.”
Vikings Game Could Swing the NFC North Race
The Week 12 matchup against the Vikings suddenly feels even bigger.
Minnesota’s defense has been relentless, forcing tight, low-scoring games — the type where a single missed field goal can decide everything. Green Bay, battling inconsistency on offense, cannot afford kicking instability.
A healthy, confident McManus could be the difference. But an injured one? A disaster waiting to happen.
If McManus is placed on IR, the Packers lose not only their primary kicker but also a stabilizing force in pressure situations. If they keep him active and he struggles, the criticism will be brutal.
LaFleur knows the stakes.
“This is a playoff-caliber opponent,” he said of Minnesota. “We need our best guys ready.”
Decision Imminent — and the NFL Is Watching
The Packers are expected to make a final decision within the next 24–48 hours. Whether it’s activating a new kicker, placing McManus on IR, or attempting to push through the injury, the move will undoubtedly define the narrative heading into Sunday.
For now, tension lingers over Lambeau Field. The coaches are waiting. The players are watching. The fanbase is buzzing with anxiety.
And Brandon McManus — the man at the center of it all — holds the future of Green Bay’s Week 12 hopes in the balance.
The clock is ticking.
