The Green Bay Packers have claimed kicker James Turner off waivers from the Detroit Lions, according to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. This move comes a day after the Packers released kicker Jack Podlesny, narrowing their kicking competition to two. Turner was let go by the Lions after they signed Jake Bates, an All-UFL kicker, to a two-year contract. Turner will now compete in Green Bay alongside 2023 draft pick Anders Carlson and veteran Greg Joseph.
James Turner, an All-Big Ten selection for the national champion Michigan Wolverines in 2023, transferred to Michigan after spending four seasons at Louisville. During his time at Michigan, Turner successfully made 18 of 21 field goals and set a school record by converting 65 extra points in a single season. At Louisville, he connected on 47 of 59 field goals and 124 of 127 extra points.
Throughout his career, James Turner made 4 of 10 attempts from at least 50 yards, with a notable improvement in 2023, going 3 for 4. For kicks of 40 or more yards, he converted 21 of 35 attempts. Turner successfully made at least 85 percent of his field goals in three of his four seasons as the primary kicker and missed only four extra points. Despite having three kickers on their roster, the Packers still have one open roster spot.
Leave a Reply