Overview
- Packers coach Matt LaFleur and special teams coordinator Cam Achord publicly reaffirmed their support for Smack on Tuesday, Nov. 3, saying they believe he can recover from recent miscues.
- Smack has converted 11 of 16 field-goal attempts and 16 of 19 extra points through eight games, giving him eight missed kicks and a 68.8% field-goal rate this season.
- The rookie has shown a powerful leg, including a 59-yard make in Week 1 that is the second-longest in team history, but he has also missed short field goals and had one attempt blocked in a key loss to Detroit.
- Special-teams problems go beyond kicking: returner Coleman Owen fumbled the opening kickoff against Carolina, and coaches have altered short-week practice work to address contact and technique.
- Green Bay traded two seventh-round picks to select Smack and general manager Brian Gutekunst has urged patience, but continued inconsistency in coming games could force the team to choose between development or a roster change.