Brian Gutekunst has successfully signed two high-profile free agents, safety Xavier McKinney and running back Josh Jacobs. However, his strategy extends beyond acquiring big names; he is constantly looking for opportunities to enhance his team. This approach is evident in the ongoing kicker competition, which features incumbent Anders Carlson, veteran Greg Joseph, and promising newcomer Jack Podlesny. Gutekunst also attempted to bring in Jake Bates, a standout kicker for the UFL’s Michigan Panthers, known for a 64-yard field goal in the season opener, although Bates ultimately signed with the Detroit Lions. This pursuit underscores the Packers’ willingness to explore all avenues for improvement.
The kicking competition in Green Bay is heating up. Bates, despite limited field goal experience from college, impressed with his long-distance kicks in the UFL, including another 60-plus yarder and multiple 50-plus yard field goals. He concluded the season as the All-UFL kicker, which naturally drew NFL attention. While Green Bay showed interest, Bates will now showcase his talents at Ford Field with the Lions. The trend of drafting kickers is waning in the NFL, given the risks associated with inexperienced players, as seen with Green Bay’s own rookie kicker, Carlson, who had a challenging first season.
The UFL presents a valuable platform for NFL teams in search of reliable kickers. The league offers a competitive environment where players can demonstrate their skills and build a strong resume. This is particularly beneficial for kickers, providing high-pressure situations similar to the NFL. With the NFL adopting UFL kickoff rules, kickers from the spring league gain a slight edge. Although Bates is a notable talent, Andre Szmyt of the Battlehawks also stands out, leading the league with 19 field goals and maintaining a 90% success rate. Szmyt’s performance makes him a compelling candidate for NFL teams, including the Packers.
Head coach Matt LaFleur has not decided if all three current kickers will attend training camp, but the interest in Bates highlights the ongoing search for competition. Carlson has shown improvement during spring training, though the battle for the starting position remains open. The ultimate goal is for Carlson to secure the role, capitalizing on his powerful leg and potential. While Bates’ signing with Detroit precludes a direct competition with Carlson, the Packers may still seek another strong-legged kicker to enhance the mix before the season begins, possibly considering Szmyt or other notable UFL talents.
The addition of Bates would have provided an intriguing dynamic for the Packers. However, the primary objective remains for Carlson to overcome his rookie struggles and emerge as a long-term solution for Green Bay. With his natural leg strength and demonstrated resilience, Carlson has the tools to succeed and solidify his position as the Packers’ kicker for the next decade.
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