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GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- It was only one practice, but new Green Bay Packers punter Jeremy Kapinos is off to a good start, at least based on the reaction of his new teammates.

After enduring weeks of poor punting in games from recently released Derrick Frost, Kapinos' first punt in practice Thursday -- a high, booming kick that barely avoided the Don Hutson Center ceiling before coming down 50 yards downfield -- was greeted with cheers from the rest of the team.

"I don't think I really deserved it, but I'll take it," Kapinos said afterward. "It was nice."

McCarthy said Kapinos would punt outside at Lambeau Field Friday. The stadium wasn't available while crews cleared snow Thursday.

"This was a big day for him," said special teams coordinator Mike Stock, who called Kapinos' mechanics "outstanding" and said they wouldn't require tweaking.

"He's got a big upside in terms of strength, fundamentals and technique. We'll see what happens on Sunday. I'm very confident after seeing him work out on Tuesday."

INJURY REPORT: Linebacker Brandon Chillar was added to the injury report after suffering a strained groin in practice Wednesday. He was limited Thursday, and if he can't play Desmond Bishop will "be the next linebacker up," McCarthy said. Bishop can play both the middle and weak-side linebacker spots.

Center Scott Wells (concussion) was limited again in practice but continues to progress and McCarthy said he assumes team doctor Pat McKenzie will clear Wells on Friday. "That's my anticipation, but we'll see what happens," McCarthy said.

Starting halfback Ryan Grant (sprained right thumb) practiced fully wearing a splint again Thursday, while his backup, Brandon Jackson (quadriceps), was a full participant after being very limited Wednesday.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)