Story perspectives

Buffalo Bills Sign Badgley as Prater Faces Injury

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Buffalo Bills will be without kicker Matt Prater for at least one game due to a week-to-week quad injury, missing the matchup with the Cleveland Browns.
The Bills signed kicker Michael Badgley to their practice squad and released cornerback M.J. Devonshire.
Badgley will step in for Prater, who has been effective this season with a 90% field goal success rate.
Tyler Bass remains on injured reserve after surgery.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's adoption of the placekicking rule in 1974 revolutionized the role of kickers, allowing them to attempt field goals from a stationary position. This change followed decades of evolving kicking techniques, transitioning from drop kicks to the now-standard soccer-style kicking. Kickers like George Blanda, who converted 64% of his attempts, exemplified this shift, highlighting the critical role of reliable kickers in modern football strategies.

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Story summary

The Buffalo Bills will be without kicker Matt Prater for at least one game due to a week-to-week quad injury, missing the matchup with the Cleveland Browns.
The Bills signed kicker Michael Badgley to their practice squad and released cornerback M.J. Devonshire.
Badgley will step in for Prater, who has been effective this season with a 90% field goal success rate.
Tyler Bass remains on injured reserve after surgery.

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