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Packers Sign Record Low-Cost Deal with New Kicker as Brandon McManus Remains Injured

Green Bay, Wisconsin – October 17, 2025

With Brandon McManus still recovering from a lingering hip injury, the Green Bay Packers made a surprising yet pragmatic move this week — signing kicker Lucas Havrisik to a one-year deal worth approximately $1.2 million. The 25-year-old specialist recently impressed the coaching staff with his flawless debut performance in last week’s victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

According to ESPN and The Athletic, it’s considered a “low-cost” contract — a base salary of around $1.2 million plus $250,000 in performance bonuses, a fair value for a dependable backup with proven composure under pressure. The short-term deal ensures stability at the kicker position while McManus continues his recovery. Though modest in numbers, the signing is being praised across the league as “the right move at the right time,” especially given Havrisik’s quick adjustment to the high-pressure environment of Lambeau Field.

Speaking to reporters after the signing, Havrisik shared an emotional reflection on his unexpected journey:

“If it weren’t for that call, I was ready to walk away from football and start teaching. Thank you, Green Bay, for this opportunity. This organization is first-class, and I’m proud to wear the green and gold.”

In his debut last week, Havrisik went a perfect 5-for-5, including a clutch field goal in the final minutes that sealed the Packers’ win. His poise and professionalism quickly earned him the trust of head coach Matt LaFleur.

“Lucas not only brings consistency but embodies the Packers’ spirit — always ready to step up when the team needs him most,” LaFleur said.

For the Packers, this “low-cost but high-value” deal not only fills a short-term need at kicker but also reinforces the franchise’s belief in players who combine humility with heart. While McManus works his way back, Lucas Havrisik is quietly writing a story about second chances, gratitude, and the unshakable “Next Man Up” mentality that defines Green Bay.

#GoPackGo #LucasHavrisik #PackersNation #NextManUp

 
 

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Just Hours Before Kickoff vs. Bengals at Paycor, Drake Maye Shares the Real Story Behind His Cleats – A Tribute That Left the Entire Patriots Nation Speechless
Cincinnati, Ohio – Just hours before the Patriots take the field at Paycor Stadium Drake Maye turned the NFL’s attention away from schemes and stats to something far deeper: family and love. The young New England star will wear a very special pair of “My Cause My Cleats,” and the reason behind them has left fans completely silent with emotion. Maye revealed the cleats are a tribute to his cousin who has Down syndrome – the person who played a huge role in his childhood. She was the first in the family with the condition, and she taught him patience, compassion, and how to treat everyone with kindness. After their grandmother passed away, the Maye family took turns caring for her for many years – an experience that shaped the empathetic Drake Maye we see today. Just hours before the game, Maye shared with visible emotion: “I want the world to know my cousin’s story. She has always been the softest, brightest light in our family. If these cleats help even one person understand more, love more, or open their heart more to people like her, then that’s the greatest gift I could ever give her today.” The words spread like wildfire and brought Patriots Nation to tears. For the “My Cause My Cleats” campaign, Maye chose to support Best Buddies North Carolina – the organization that helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities integrate into the community. His cleats are designed in the organization’s signature colors and will be auctioned immediately after the game to raise funds for families with loved ones who have Down syndrome. Even as a rookie, Maye has already proven that true leadership isn’t measured only on the field – it’s measured by the heart and the way he inspires an entire community. As the Patriots walk into Paycor Stadium to face the Bengals, Drake Maye’s cleats carry more than just hope for a win – they carry the love for a cousin who has shaped his life forever.