Green Bay, Wisconsin – Just three hours after receiving notification from the Green Bay Packers leadership that he would be released because he was “too old and no longer valuable,” legendary kicker Brandon McManus made a shocking decision: he officially announced his retirement.

Throughout the final chapter of his career with the Packers, McManus had become a symbol of professionalism and perseverance.

Although he had only been with the Packers for a little more than one and a half seasons, he quickly won the affection of the fans with his clutch kicks and exemplary player attitude.

McManus was an important member on the Packers’ journey and the legend who made major contributions to help the Denver Broncos win Super Bowl 50.

However, in a move that left many fans stunned, the Packers decided to cut him immediately after drafting young kicker Trey Smack in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, citing their focus on building for the future and believing that McManus (34 years old) “no longer fit into the long-term plan.”

“They told me that I was too old and no longer valuable. Those words made me very sad, but instead of harboring anger or bitterness, I chose to forgive,” McManus shared in his retirement announcement. “I don’t want to leave with any resentment. I just want to thank the Packers for giving me the opportunity to play football in one of the greatest places in the NFL. Green Bay welcomed me like a member of the family, and I will forever be grateful.”

Although he could have continued his career with many other teams, McManus chose to end his career in a noble way rather than move elsewhere. He did not let disappointment overshadow his legacy, but instead offered deep gratitude to the Packers organization and the fans.

McManus was not only an excellent kicker on the field; he was also a leader and a role model of professionalism and gratitude. Even though the Packers leadership may have chosen a new direction for the future, McManus’s influence and the respect he receives in the Green Bay community have not diminished in the slightest.

With this retirement decision, Brandon McManus has closed a long and illustrious career — from the undrafted kid from Philadelphia in 2013 to a Super Bowl champion and a reliable kicker for the Packers in his final years. Instead of leaving with regret, he chose the path of forgiveness and gratitude.

Brandon McManus’s legacy will forever be etched in NFL history, especially with the Denver Broncos and the Green Bay Packers. Although his playing career has ended, he will always remain a legend in the hearts of Packers fans.