Bills turn to veteran kicker Matt Prater as Tyler Bass lands on injured reserve
The Buffalo Bills find themselves in a precarious position as they approach the start of the season. An unexpected injury to kicker Tyler Bass has forced the team to reassess their strategy at a crucial position just days before their Week 1 opener against the Baltimore Ravens. As the Bills prepare for Sunday Night Football, they will have to navigate the challenges that come with a new kicker taking the field.
Tyler Bass injury update
In a move that has shaken the team’s plans, Tyler Bass was placed on Injured Reserve on Friday, sidelining him for at least four games. The injury comes after he missed the first two preseason games due to pelvic-area soreness. Although he managed to return for the preseason finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Bass struggled, missing a relatively short field goal attempt from just 26 yards wide right.
Who is the Bills’ kicker?
With Bass out, the Bills are turning to veteran kicker Matt Prater to fill the void. On Thursday, Buffalo signed Prater to their practice squad, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Before the game, he will need to be elevated to the 53-man roster.
Prater, 41, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having spent 18 seasons in the NFL. Known for his powerful leg, he has made 407 career field goals at an impressive 83.6% success rate, including 81 attempts from 50 yards or more. This experience will be critical as the Bills face a Ravens team that will also be debuting a new kicker, rookie Tyler Loop, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the matchup.
As the season begins, the Bills will be hoping that Prater can step in seamlessly and provide the stability and reliability they need in this critical role.
