In a shocking postgame twist, the Green Bay Packers have officially released kicker Lucas Havrisik, only hours after their narrow 27 – 18 win over the Cincinnati Bengals at Lambeau Field. The decision stunned both fans and analysts, especially after Havrisik appeared on the field during key moments of the victory.
According to multiple team sources, the move was not performance-related alone — though Havrisik did miss a 44-yard field goal attempt late in the second quarter. Reports indicate that internal disagreements between the coaching staff and Havrisik over pregame preparation and locker-room conduct may have accelerated his exit.
Head coach Matt LaFleur addressed the decision in his postgame press conference but stopped short of providing full details. “We make every roster decision based on what’s best for this football team,” LaFleur said. “Sometimes that means making difficult choices quickly. We wish Lucas the best moving forward.”
Havrisik, 25, joined the Packers earlier this season after short stints with the Los Angeles Rams and Cleveland Browns. Known for his strong leg but inconsistent accuracy, he was brought in to stabilize Green Bay’s special teams after veteran kicker Anders Carlson struggled in early preseason games.
However, according to sources close to the organization, the coaching staff grew frustrated with Havrisik’s practice habits and communication. One insider described the situation as “a chemistry issue more than a kicking one,” suggesting the move was as much about culture as it was about production on the field.
During Sunday’s win, Havrisik converted two extra points and a 37-yard field goal but failed to deliver on a crucial attempt before halftime that could have extended the Packers’ lead. Following the game, cameras caught a heated exchange between Havrisik and a special teams assistant near the tunnel — fueling speculation about internal friction.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst later confirmed that the team plans to hold tryouts early this week to evaluate replacement options. Early candidates reportedly include former Cowboys kicker Brett Maher and free agent Tristan Vizcaino, both of whom have prior NFL experience and strong leg power.
This isn’t the first time Green Bay has made an abrupt roster move after a win. The organization has long emphasized accountability and discipline — two values that LaFleur has built his program around. “It’s not just about results on the scoreboard,” a team spokesperson said. “It’s about how you prepare, how you respond, and how you represent this franchise.”
For Havrisik, the release marks another setback in a young but turbulent NFL career. Despite flashes of potential, he’s struggled to find long-term stability since entering the league in 2022.
As for the Packers, the decision sends a clear message — performance and professionalism both matter. With key division games looming, the team can’t afford distractions, and every roster spot counts.
