Detroit Lions Kicker Michael Badgley Out for Season Due to Injury
- Detroit Lions kicker Michael Badgley will miss the remainder of the season due to a significant injury.
- Jake Bates, known for his performance in the United Football League, is positioned to take over the kicking duties.
- The team will need Bates to deliver consistently to maintain their performance as the season progresses.
ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — The Detroit Lions will be without kicker Michael Badgley for the remainder of the season following a significant injury that requires surgery. Coach Dan Campbell announced the news on Friday, revealing that Badgley sustained the injury prior to Thursday's practice. While the team has not disclosed specific details about the injury, ESPN reports it to be a torn hamstring. Campbell expressed his disappointment for Badgley, stating, “Feel awful for Badge, man. He worked his tail off to get ready for this season.” Badgley, who has played for six NFL teams since 2018, joined the Lions' practice squad last year and was activated in December. He had a strong finish to the previous season, successfully converting all field goal attempts in the last three regular-season games and the playoffs. In light of Badgley’s injury, the Lions are looking to fill the kicker position, with Jake Bates emerging as the leading candidate. Bates, who signed a two-year contract with the Lions in June, previously made headlines in the United Football League by kicking a record 64-yard field goal. Last season, he demonstrated his long-range capabilities, finishing with a successful rate of 7 for 11 on field goals from 50 yards or longer. The Lions plan to bring in additional kickers to compete with Bates as they navigate this unexpected setback in their roster.