Brayden Narveson, the ex-Packers kicker, has had a tumultuous few seasons since leaving Green Bay. After joining the Packers in 2024, his tenure was brief, spanning only six games. Seeking a revival, he signed with the Edmonton Elks in the Canadian Football League but was cut prior to the season's start in 2025, leaving him without a team once again.

His struggles highlight the challenges NFL kickers face in maintaining their positions, especially when transitioning to leagues like the CFL. The Packers’ kicking situation remains uncertain as they look for a stable replacement heading into the next season. Narveson’s journey serves as a reminder of the volatility in a kicker’s career.

The Minnesota Vikings are enjoying a remarkable season under the leadership of coach Kevin O’Connell, who has led the team to a stunning 13-2 record. This achievement was highlighted during a recent locker room ceremony where veteran right tackle Brian O’Neill honored O’Connell with a game ball for his impressive coaching performance, marking his second 13-win season in three years. Tight end T.J. Hockenson praised O’Connell’s character and leadership, emphasizing the team’s gratitude for playing under his guidance.

As the Vikings prepare for a critical matchup against the Green Bay Packers, they have the opportunity to clinch the NFC North title for the second time in three seasons. A victory would also secure the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. However, O’Connell insists that the team is focused on taking it one game at a time, emphasizing the importance of consistency and daily improvement in their approach.

On the other hand, the Packers, currently sitting at 11-4, are also playoff-bound despite being two games behind the Vikings and the Detroit Lions. Coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the competitive nature of the division, noting that it pushes teams to perform at their best every week. The Packers have struggled against the top teams in the NFC, and quarterback Jordan Love stressed the need to secure wins against strong opponents to prepare for the playoffs.

The upcoming game will be crucial for both teams, as they hope to minimize turnovers and capitalize on their strengths. The Vikings are looking forward to the return of linebacker Ivan Pace, who has been sidelined with an injury, while the Packers have made adjustments to their kicking game after releasing Brayden Narveson and bringing in veteran Brandon McManus.

Greg Zuerlein's position as the New York Jets' kicker is under scrutiny as the team explores alternatives. Recently, the Jets held workouts for several kickers, including Zane Gonzalez and Cade York, among others, signaling a potential change in the kicking game.

Despite Zuerlein's experience, his current performance has raised concerns, with a field goal success rate of just 60%. The Jets are expected to finalize their decision soon, with the new kicker likely to debut in the upcoming Thursday Night Football game.

Brandon McManus celebrated his return to the NFL with a memorable Lambeau Leap after kicking a game-winning field goal for the Green Bay Packers, sealing a 24-22 victory over the Houston Texans.

His leap, assisted by fans and teammates, highlighted a week filled with notable comebacks, including Saquon Barkley's impressive performance for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs maintaining their unbeaten streak.

Despite a rough outing for Davante Adams in his reunion with Aaron Rodgers, McManus's successful debut with the Packers marked a significant moment in his career.

Brandon McManus made a 45-yard field goal as time expired in his debut with the Green Bay Packers, securing a 24-22 victory over the Houston Texans. The Packers, overcoming three turnovers, improved to 5-2 and ended the Texans' three-game winning streak.

McManus, signed after the release of rookie Brayden Narveson, showcased his reliability by delivering the winning kick. Jordan Love threw for three touchdowns despite two interceptions, while Joe Mixon led the Texans with 115 rushing yards and two touchdowns.