Tyler Bass Injury Forces Bills to Place Kicker on IR, Matt Prater Likely to Step In

The Buffalo Bills placed kicker Tyler Bass on injured reserve on Friday. He is sidelined with hip and groin injuries. Bass will miss at least the first four games of the season. The team signed veteran Matt Prater as backup. Prater is expected to kick in the opener against the Baltimore Ravens.

Bass has been Buffalo’s primary kicker since 2020. He is known for his consistency and big-game kicks. His absence leaves a major gap for the Bills special teams unit. According to AP, the move comes after Bass missed much of training camp while recovering.

Matt Prater Steps Into Key Role for Buffalo

The Bills quickly turned to Matt Prater for support. The 18-year veteran last played with the Arizona Cardinals. His 2024 season ended early with a knee injury in Week 4. Now, he gets another chance in Buffalo.

Prater has made over 370 field goals in his career. He is one of the most experienced active kickers in the NFL. His arrival provides stability in Bass’s absence. The Bills face Baltimore on Sunday, and the game will test their depth.

The team also has other injury concerns. Cornerback Tre’Davious White is doubtful with a recent practice injury. Rookie first-round pick Maxwell Hairston is also on IR with a knee sprain. These losses could pressure the defense against the Ravens’ strong attack.

Impact Across NFL Injury Reports

Buffalo is not the only team dealing with setbacks. Baltimore ruled out tight end Isaiah Likely and fullback Patrick Ricard. Their absence could affect blocking and red zone plays.

Around the league, several big names were listed on the injury report. Green Bay edge rusher Micah Parsons is questionable with a back issue. San Francisco star Christian McCaffrey is also questionable with a calf problem. Giants left tackle Andrew Thomas is doubtful, while Miami’s Darren Waller has been ruled out.

These injuries highlight the challenges of Week 1. Teams must adapt quickly to lineup changes. The Bills hope Prater can deliver steady performances until Bass returns.

Tyler Bass injury comes at a tough time for Buffalo. The Bills enter the season with high expectations. Losing a trusted kicker could shift momentum in close games. Still, the addition of Prater shows the team is ready to keep moving forward.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Tyler Bass?

Tyler Bass was placed on injured reserve with hip and groin issues. He will miss at least four games.

Q2: Who will replace Tyler Bass?

The Bills signed veteran kicker Matt Prater. He is expected to play in the opener against the Ravens.

Q3: How long will Tyler Bass be out?

Bass must stay on IR for at least four games. His return will depend on recovery progress.

Q4: What other Bills players are injured?

Cornerback Tre’Davious White is doubtful, and rookie Maxwell Hairston is on IR. Both are key defensive players.

Q5: Which NFL stars are also injured this week?

Christian McCaffrey, Micah Parsons, Andrew Thomas, Darren Waller, and Dre Greenlaw are among the names listed.