The Green Bay Packers wrapped up their 2026 preseason schedule with consecutive wins, including a decisive triumph against the Denver Broncos and a come-from-behind victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Beyond the final scores, several athletes on Matt LaFleur's squad delivered exceptional showings throughout the three exhibition games.
Among the top performers, rookie kicker Trey Smack demonstrated remarkable precision, converting all 16 of his attempted kicks, which included nine field goals and seven extra points. Notably, three of his field goals were from beyond 50 yards, cementing his role as the team's starting kicker. Wide receiver J. Michael Sturdivant, an undrafted talent, also impressed with nine receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown, showcasing strong blocking and special teams contributions. Second-year quarterback Kyle McCord displayed significant progress, completing nearly 66% of his passes for four touchdowns without any turnovers, making a compelling case for a spot on the 53-man roster. On the defensive side, lineman Jonathan Ford exhibited substantial improvement with five run stops and five hurries, signaling his potential to secure a roster spot. Edge rusher Nyjalik Kelly, after a slow start, dominated the final two games with eight pressures, a forced fumble, and an interception. Fellow defensive lineman Jaden Crumedy also had a strong, albeit quieter, preseason, earning the highest defensive tackle grade from PFF for the team. Receiver Will Sheppard led the team with three touchdowns, including an electrifying 81-yard punt return, making a strong case for a practice squad role. Finally, defensive lineman Anthony Campbell, in his second year, was a disruptive force with seven pressures and two sacks, demonstrating rapid improvement and challenging for a 53-man roster spot.
The strong individual performances across both offense and defense indicate a promising outlook for the Green Bay Packers as they transition from the preseason to the regular season. These players' dedication and skill exemplify the competitive spirit and talent within the team, setting a positive tone for the challenges ahead.