The Green Bay Packers have released veteran kicker Brandon McManus, according to a report from Adam Schefter of ESPN on Friday.
The move comes shortly after the Packers utilized a sixth-round pick in last month's NFL Draft to select Florida kicker Trey Smack. By releasing McManus today, the organization has cleared the path for the rookie to take over the starting duties heading into the summer program.
McManus, a long-time veteran who spent nine seasons with the Denver Broncos before moving to the Jacksonville Jaguars and eventually signing with Green Bay, was expected to provide a veteran presence in the kicking room. However, the investment in Trey Smack during the draft signaled a shift in direction for the Packers' special teams unit.
Smack joins the Packers after a standout career with the Gators, where he established himself as one of the most reliable legs in the SEC. With McManus now a free agent, he will be permitted to sign with any team immediately as the league moves toward mandatory minicamps and training camp.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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