McNamee signs contract with Green Bay Packers

Mark McNamee has become the latest Irish recruit in the NFL after the kicker signed for the Green Bay Packers.

McNamee, a former Ballyboden St Enda's goalkeeper, was included in this year's International Player Pathway Program and subsequently joined Canadian Football League franchise BC Lions.

He played two pre-season games for the Vancouver-based franchise but was released last month.

The 25-year old was tonight signed by the Packers as their back-up kicker and International Player Pathway Program player, with Australian Alex Hales departing.

McNamee becomes the second Irish player on the Packers roster, alongside Wicklow-born punter Daniel Whelan.

Former Down goalkeeper Charlie Smyth is another noted graduate of the IPPP, having earned a contract with the New Orleans Saints in 2024.

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