Buffalo Bills Elevate Veteran Kicker Michael Badgley to Active Roster for Critical Browns Matchup

The Buffalo Bills have made a key roster move ahead of a pivotal Week 16 game. The team elevated veteran placekicker Michael Badgley to the active roster on Saturday. He is set to handle kicking duties against the Cleveland Browns this Sunday. The game kicks off at 1 p.m. ET in Cleveland.

This move comes as a direct response to an injury to starter Matt Prater. The Bills officially confirmed the transaction, adding depth for a crucial late-season contest. According to reports from The Associated Press, the team acted swiftly to secure a proven replacement.

Prater’s Calf Injury Prompts Sudden Roster Shuffle

Veteran kicker Matt Prater suffered a right calf injury last week. The injury occurred during the Bills’ win over the New England Patriots. Team officials have listed the 41-year-old as week-to-week.

This created an immediate need for a fill-in kicker. Badgley, released by the Indianapolis Colts earlier this month, was available. He signed a practice squad deal with Buffalo this past week.

The Bills’ original kicker, Tyler Bass, is on injured reserve. He underwent season-ending surgery earlier this year. That made Badgley the logical and available choice for this emergency role.

Badgley Brings Experience to High-Stakes Game

Michael Badgley brings considerable experience to a pressure-filled situation. He made 10 of 11 field goal attempts for the Colts this season. His career field goal conversion rate stands at a solid 83.1 percent.

The 30-year-old has kicked for five different NFL teams. His journey includes stops with the Chargers, Bears, Lions, and Titans. This breadth of experience should help him adjust quickly to a new team environment.

The game carries significant playoff implications for both teams. A reliable kicking performance could be the difference in a close contest. The Bills are counting on Badgley’s leg in the challenging Cleveland conditions.

The Bills’ decision to activate Michael Badgley underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL season. His performance could directly impact Buffalo’s playoff trajectory in this tight AFC race. The veteran kicker now has a prime opportunity to shape the team’s postseason fate.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Michael Badgley replacing for the Bills?

He is replacing injured starter Matt Prater. Prater is week-to-week with a calf injury suffered in Week 15. Regular kicker Tyler Bass is already on injured reserve.

What is Michael Badgley’s recent kicking history?

Badgley most recently played for the Indianapolis Colts. He made 10 of 11 field goal attempts over seven games this season. The Colts released him on December 2.

When is the Bills vs. Browns game?

The Week 16 matchup is scheduled for Sunday, December 21. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. Eastern Time. The game will be played at Cleveland Browns Stadium.

Why is this game so important for Buffalo?

The game has major playoff implications in the crowded AFC. Every win is critical for seeding and postseason qualification. A loss could severely damage their playoff hopes.

How reliable has Badgley been in his career?

He has been a consistent NFL kicker. His career field goal percentage is 83.1 percent. He has experience in high-pressure situations with multiple teams.