The Green Bay Packers released rookie kicker James Turner before Tuesday’s practice, reducing the kicking competition to Anders Carlson vs. Greg Joseph entering Week 2 of Packers training camp.
Turner, an undrafted free agent out of Michigan, had fallen behind in the kicking competition, at least in terms of on-field results. He was 13-of-19 on live field goals during training camp, while Carlson, the incumbent, and Joseph, the veteran challenger, were both 16-of-18 through the first six practices.
The Packers claimed Turner off waivers from the Detroit Lions on June 24.
Coach Matt LaFleur had been rotating kickers during training camp. Turner was given one day, while Carlson and Joseph typically took the next. With only two kickers on the roster, LaFleur and Rich Bisaccia may have an easier time giving Carlson and Joseph the necessary on-field opportunities. At the very least, they’ll be able to rotate days.
Bisaccia said Monday that the kicking competition was still in its early stages, but it was clear Turner had fallen behind.
Turner was an All-Big Ten pick for Michigan in 2023. He made 18 of 21 kicks and 65 of 66 extra points for the national champions. Turner transferred to Michigan after four seasons at Louisville.
The Packers made six roster moves on Tuesday. In addition to Turner, the Packers also released cornerback Zyon Gilbert and fullback Henry Pearson. The team signed cornerbacks Don Callis and LJ Smith and long snapper Peter Bowden.
