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Since the 2025 preseason finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills kicker Tyler Bass has not attempted a field goal in a competitive setting. Despite being the only kicker on the 90-man roster, Bass has yet to demonstrate his leg during the first five training camp practices held at St. John Fisher University since July 29.
The 29-year-old Bass has been dealing with core muscle issues since last summer and is approximately eight months removed from surgery to repair a sports hernia. He was placed on Injured Reserve before the 2025 regular season opener, allowing street free agent Matt Prater to take over before Bass ultimately underwent season-ending surgery.
While media and fans have not seen Bass attempt a field goal in nearly a year, special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers confirmed that Bass has been kicking outside of practice. "It hasn't worked out for us to be on the field quite yet. That'll happen later on this week, and again at the stadium," Rodgers said during his first formal media availability of training camp on August 4.
Key Analysis
Rodgers indicated that Buffalo will practice field goal protection for the first time in pads on August 6. In addition to that Thursday session, Bass is also expected to kick during the "Return of The Blue & Red" event on August 8 at Highmark Stadium. Rodgers emphasized a gradual approach to Bass's return, stating, "I don't think you skip steps. It starts from ground zero. He's working with two new holders right now, that's a part of that comfort. It's gonna be a rep thing."
The Bills have two punters on the roster, and the one who survives will likely serve as the primary holder for field goals and extra points. Veteran Mitch Wishnowsky, who joined the team in Week 5 last year, has not held for Bass before. The other candidate is rookie punter Tommy Doman, a seventh-round pick.
Bass himself expressed optimism about his recovery, saying, "Body's feeling good, We're excited to get back. The process has been really just kind of recovering, strengthening what we kinda had worked on and just taking it one day at a time." Rodgers also noted that Bass "looks like he did on tape and everything is going well so far." Thursday's practice will provide the first opportunity for Bass to demonstrate his progress publicly.