Detroit Lions Lose Kicker Michael Badgley for 2024 Season Due to Injury

The Detroit Lions will be without kicker Michael Badgley for the entirety of the 2024 season following a significant injury sustained during practice preparations. Head coach Dan Campbell expressed his disappointment, stating, "Feel awful, feel bad," and noted that Badgley was having a strong spring and was ready for training camp. The injury marks a setback for the team as they head into the new season. Badgley joined the Lions' practice squad before the 2023 season and was elevated to the active roster in December after Riley Patterson struggled. He made a notable impact, successfully converting all four field-goal attempts during the regular season and going 3-for-3 in the postseason. His performance led to a re-signing in February, highlighting his importance to the team. Throughout his six-year professional career, Badgley has experienced a tumultuous journey, having played for multiple teams before finding a role with the Lions. Despite being released prior to last year's training camp, he managed to establish himself as a reliable kicker, boasting a career field-goal percentage of 82.4%, ranking him 23rd among active kickers. With Badgley sidelined, the Lions currently have Jake Bates as the only kicker on their roster. Bates was signed after a successful season with the Michigan Panthers in the UFL, where he converted 17 of 22 field goals, indicating the Lions' efforts to fill the void left by Badgley’s injury.