As the 2024 preseason nears its end, Green Bay Packers fans are left underwhelmed by two ongoing competitions: the battles for backup quarterback and kicker. In a recent move, the Packers have shifted their international player designation from defensive end Kenneth Odumegwu to Australian kicker Alex Hale. This decision grants the team added flexibility for the regular season, but comes at the cost of losing a promising young defensive player.
Hale, who has been with the Packers for a few weeks, is currently competing with Anders Carlson and Greg Joseph for the team’s kicking duties. However, none of the kickers have managed to stand out. With final roster cuts approaching on August 27th, the Packers will soon need to decide who will secure the position.
The transfer of the international designation to Hale allows the Packers to keep him on the practice squad without affecting the standard 16-man limit, giving the team an extra option in the kicking department. However, this move also means that Odumegwu, a young Nigerian player who recently took up football, has been released. Despite his limited experience, Odumegwu spent the previous season on the Packers’ practice squad and saw some action in this year’s preseason games.
For the Packers’ kicker competition, this maneuver provides additional flexibility. It’s unlikely another team would claim Hale off waivers, meaning the Packers could retain him as a 17th practice squad member. This situation could allow the team to explore other kicker options after final cuts or give Hale time to develop while keeping a veteran on the active roster.
As final cuts loom, the Packers’ decision could significantly shape their roster strategy, with Hale offering insurance for the kicking position while the team assesses its options.
