Bills’ Prater Out for Browns Game; Key Injury Updates for Week 16
Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced that kicker Matt Prater will miss the Week 16 matchup against the Cleveland Browns due to a right quad injury. This injury has put Prater in a “week to week” status, leading to concerns for the team’s kicking game.
Bills’ Kicking Situation
Prater has performed well this season, successfully converting 90% of his field goal attempts, with 18 out of 20 made. He has also excelled in extra points, hitting 43 out of 46 attempts for a 93% success rate. This impressive field goal percentage is noteworthy as it is on track to be his highest since 2015, given he has attempted at least 20 kicks this season.
Impact of Prater’s Injury
The absence of Prater is not ideal for the Bills, especially with kicker Tyler Bass already placed on injured reserve for the season. Coach McDermott acknowledged the challenge, stating, “Matt’s done a really good job having that consistency during the year.” The team will need to find a replacement kicker quickly for the upcoming game.
Other Key Injuries
Buffalo will also face challenges without defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained in the game against the New England Patriots. Meanwhile, cornerback Christian Benford and linebacker Terrel Bernard are showing signs of improvement from their respective injuries, with Bernard dealing with an elbow issue and Benford with a toe injury.
Mecole Hardman’s Return
Wide receiver and kick returner Mecole Hardman is a potential candidate to activate from injured reserve this week. He has been out since November 20 but could have his 21-day practice window opened soon.
- Matt Prater: Out with a right quad injury
- Field goal attempts: 18 of 20 (90%)
- Extra point attempts: 43 of 46 (93%)
- Tyler Bass: On injured reserve
- Jordan Phillips: Out with an ankle injury
- Christian Benford: Improving from toe injury
- Terrel Bernard: Improving from elbow injury
- Mecole Hardman: Possible activation from injured reserve
The Bills are facing a tough situation as they prepare for Week 16, and how they navigate these key injuries will significantly impact their performance against the Browns.
