Packers Select Florida’s Trey Smack to Resolve Kicking Instability
Green Bay targets 23-year-old with SEC honours and program record for long-range accuracy in 2026 Draft
The Green Bay Packers have selected University of Florida kicker Trey Smack in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, aiming to stabilise a kicking unit that has struggled with consistency since the departure of Mason Crosby.
The selection, made with the 216th overall pick, follows a turbulent period for the franchise at the position. Anders Carlson took over in 2023 but was released the following offseason after a series of mistakes. Brayden Narveson started the 2024 season before Brandon McManus was signed midway through the year, initially providing a spark before consistency issues resurfaced despite a contract extension the previous spring.
Smack, aged 23, brings a track record of accuracy from the SEC. During his time as Florida’s starter from 2023 to 2025, he recorded 35 field goals from 42 attempts, including five from 50 yards or more in his first two seasons. He also maintained a perfect record of 73 extra points during that span.
In the 2025 season, Smack went 18-for-22 on field goals, including five from 50-plus yards, earning third-team All-SEC honours. He also set a Florida Gators program record with ten career field goals longer than 50 yards, surpassing previous notable kickers such as Caleb Sturgis, Jeff Chandler and Evan McPherson.
Reports from training camp indicate Smack made his preseason debut by going 3-for-5 during his first live field-goal period. The Packers view his collegiate performance and long-range efficiency as potential solutions to the recurring reliability problems that have characterised the position since Crosby’s exit.
The move signals a shift in strategy for Green Bay, which has cycled through multiple kickers in recent years. Smack’s arrival offers the organisation a candidate with proven collegiate success to address the inconsistencies that have plagued the unit over the past three seasons.
