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WI Sports Heroics
ESPN analyst names Colts kicker as potential solution to Green Bay Packers’ kicking woes
- Story byWI Sports Heroics
- ESPN analyst names Colts kicker as potential solution to Green Bay Packers’ kicking woes
The Green Bay Packers could address their kicking concerns before the NFL trade deadline by pursuing Indianapolis Colts kicker Spencer Shrader, according to ESPN's Seth Walder.
He points to Green Bay's need for a dependable option at the position and Indianapolis' potential willingness to move a capable kicker. Although trades involving kickers are uncommon, Walder believes the situation could work out well for both teams.
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"The biggest issue for Green Bay this season has been its offensive line," wrote the NFL insider.
"But the most easily fixed problem might be at kicker, with sixth-round rookie Trey Smack struggling. Actually, that's putting it mildly. Smack has recorded minus-2.1 field goals over expected, second worst in the NFL this season, along with three missed PATs. Shrader is on the other end of that spectrum, with 4.1 field goals made over expected, per NFL Next Gen Stats. He's in a contract year, too."
The Colts are sitting at 2-5 after parting ways with their general manager. They have already traded DeForest Buckner and Quenton Nelson, with reports suggesting the team is open to considering additional offers for other players on its roster.
Could Spencer Shrader replace Trey Smack for the Green Bay Packers?
Green Bay Packers kicker Trey Smack (28) attempts a field goal against Detroit Lions during the first half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026.
Shrader is entering his third NFL season after spending his rookie year moving between teams before finding a home with Indianapolis over the past two seasons. He has converted 19-of-21 field goal attempts this year, including 13-of-15 from at least 40 yards and six of seven from 50 yards or beyond.
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He was also reliable last season, making 13-of-14 attempts. Shrader has been even more consistent on extra points, connecting on 37-of-38 throughout his NFL career.
Green Bay Packers kicker Trey Smack (28) misses a field goal against Detroit Lions during the second half at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026.
The Packers kicking struggles become more apparent when Trey Smack's numbers are compared with Shrader's. Smack has failed to convert five of his 16 field goal attempts in eight games, while Shrader has recorded only three misses on 32 tries over the past two seasons.
Smack has also been unreliable from shorter distances , making just six of eight attempts inside 40 yards and four of five from less than 30 yards. His three missed extra points add to the concern, while Shrader's career mark of 37 successful conversions in 38 extra point attempts gives the Colts kicker another advantage on the stat sheet.
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Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst surveys practice on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
