In a surprising offseason twist, the Green Bay Packers have yet to part ways with kicker Brandon McManus, despite a playoff performance that left fans reeling. The Packers were sitting comfortably with a 21-3 lead against the Chicago Bears, only to see it slip away, largely due to McManus' struggles. With Rich Bisaccia stepping down as the special teams coordinator, the door is open for the Packers to reconsider their options.
McManus was at the center of the storm during that playoff collapse, missing a crucial extra point and two field goals that allowed the Bears to stage a comeback. The loss was a gut punch for the Packers faithful, who expected more significant changes in the offseason. Bisaccia's departure could be the catalyst for addressing these lingering issues.
Throughout the final stretch of the regular season, Bisaccia expressed confidence in McManus, suggesting the kicker had regained his form. However, this seemed more like a show of loyalty than a reflection of performance. With Bisaccia gone, the Packers have a chance to explore alternatives, whether by bringing in competition or seeking a more reliable option in free agency.
Financially, cutting McManus after June 1 could save the Packers $2.6 million in cap space, according to Spotrac. This move would alleviate most of the financial burden from the remaining two years on his contract, providing a clean slate for the team to rebuild trust in their kicking game.
The playoff stage is where legends are made, and unfortunately for McManus, his performance fell short. As the Packers look to the future, they need a kicker who can handle the pressure and deliver when it matters most. Bisaccia's exit gives Green Bay an opportunity to make a decisive change that aligns with their championship aspirations.
In the end, removing one of McManus' staunchest supporters could be the first step in rectifying a situation that has been a thorn in the Packers' side. It's time for Green Bay to act decisively and find a fit that truly works for the team moving forward.