The Buffalo Bills are facing an unexpected challenge at kicker heading into their Week 16 matchup with the Cleveland Browns.
Head coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Matt Prater will not play this week as he deals with a right quad injury. McDermott added that Prater is considered week-to-week.
Prater has been one of the Bills’ most reliable contributors this season, converting 18-of-20 field-goal attempts (90 percent) and 43-of-46 extra points (93 percent). His field-goal accuracy is on track to be his best since the 2015 season, provided he reaches at least 20 attempts.
With Tyler Bass already placed on injured reserve following surgery and ruled out for the remainder of the season, Buffalo will need to add another kicker before Sunday’s game.
“Not ideal,” McDermott said. “Matt’s been very consistent for us. With Tyler unavailable as well, we’ll work through the options and get someone ready.”
Buffalo will also be without defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, who is sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in Sunday’s win over the New England Patriots.
The Bills and Browns will square off in Cleveland on Sunday at 1 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
