Dan Whelan makes bright start to life in the NFL as the Green Bay Packers tame the Chicago Bears

Green Bay Packers punter Dan Whelan became the Irish-born player to feature in an NFL game since 1985 when he made a highly encouraging competitive debut in his side's 38-20 victory over the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

Whelan averaged 49.8 yards off five punts, leaving him tied for seventh in punt averages with just one remaining game up for decision in week one of the regular season.

Known for his big leg, the 24-year-old's longest effort was a booming 68-yarder, with only Michael Dickson of the Seattle Seahawks and the Carolina Panthers' Johnny Hekker exceeding that distance.

Punters are often judged on their ability to pin opposing offences inside the 20-yard line and Whelan did just that with one of his five attempts against the Packers' bitter divisional rivals.

Serving as the holder on field goals for kicker Anders Carlson, his composed catch and accurate placement from a high snap allowed Whelan's fellow rookie to make his first NFL field goal from 52 yards.

Whelan lived in Enniskerry until the age of 13, when his family moved from Wicklow to California to take up residence in Palm Springs.

Daniel Whelan's first NFL punt! Let's go Dan!