Irish Kicker Mark McNamee Shines in Packers Debut After Swift US Arrival

Mark McNamee, the 25-year-old Irish kicker, made a remarkable debut for the Green Bay Packers just a day after landing in the United States. McNamee, who hails from Dublin, took all three kick-offs for the Packers in their 30-10 NFL preseason defeat to the New York Jets on Saturday.

McNamee was part of the 2025 International Player Pathway programme and signed a contract with the Packers in July. However, his arrival in Wisconsin was delayed due to visa processing. He finally received his visa last week and landed in the US the night before the game.

"I landed at about 11pm [the night before the game]," McNamee told reporters after the game. "The Packers and the immigration lawyers have been great with me in just getting it done, it's not an easy thing to get a visa. It felt like a long time, but it was only two weeks, it was really quick and I'm really grateful to be here."

McNamee's debut marks a significant milestone in his career and a proud moment for his family. "It feels like it's the beginning, it's a good moment for me and my family," he added.

In other NFL preseason action, Derry native Jude McAtamney kicked a 43-yard field goal and a point in the New York Giants' 34-25 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Saturday.

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