Brandon McManus, the veteran NFL kicker, has officially signed a three-year, $15.3 million contract with the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant development both for the team and the player’s career. This move comes after McManus delivered an impressive performance during the 2024 season, despite earlier legal controversies. His signing has sparked conversations not only about his athletic contributions but also the context surrounding his departure from his previous team and the legal issues that had clouded his future in the league.
McManus, 33, joined the Packers mid-season in October 2024 following his release from the Washington Commanders. His release came on the heels of a sexual assault allegation made against him. However, by September 2024, the NFL concluded a formal investigation into the matter and determined there was insufficient evidence to take disciplinary action. Additionally, McManus has publicly referred to the lawsuit as “resolved,” and the case has not advanced further in court. The specifics of the resolution remain private, but no charges were filed, and the league cleared him to continue playing.
From a performance standpoint, McManus quickly proved his value to Green Bay. In just 11 games with the Packers, he made 20 of 21 field goal attempts and converted all 30 of his extra point tries. Impressively, three of those field goals were from beyond 50 yards, underscoring his leg strength and accuracy under pressure. His lone miss came in a high-stakes wild-card playoff game against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he missed a 38-yard attempt—his first playoff miss in 12 postseason tries.
Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst addressed the signing by emphasizing the team’s confidence in their decision. He stated that the organization conducted “thorough due diligence” before signing McManus, adding that they were comfortable with the resolution of the legal matter and focused on his ability to contribute on the field. The team believes McManus brings consistency and veteran leadership to a special teams unit that has faced some uncertainty in recent seasons.
For McManus, this contract symbolizes not only a career resurgence but a personal and professional turning point. His successful stint with Green Bay during the 2024 season helped rebuild his reputation, and now, with a multi-year deal in place, he has the opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the league’s more reliable kickers. A Super Bowl champion with the Denver Broncos, McManus has long been known for his clutch kicking and powerful leg, and now he has the platform to continue showcasing those strengths in Green Bay.
While the controversy surrounding his past may continue to follow him in public discourse, the Packers’ decision to sign McManus indicates their belief in second chances and their trust in the vetting process that cleared him. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, McManus is positioned not just to make key plays for Green Bay, but also to write a new chapter in his career—one focused on performance, consistency, and redemption.
