Buffalo Bills fans can finally exhale as their star kicker, Tyler Bass, made a triumphant return to the field on August 23, 2025, during the team’s final preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The 2020 sixth-round draft pick had been sidelined since July 28 due to pelvic soreness, casting uncertainty over his availability for the upcoming regular season. However, Bass’s performance in his first competitive action of the summer signals that the Bills’ $20.4 million man is back and ready to contribute.
A Cautious Recovery Plan
The Bills took a conservative approach to Bass’s recovery. During the team’s Return of the Blue & Red practice on August 1, running back Ray Davis stepped in to attempt kicks, highlighting the void left by Bass’s absence. The team also signed Caden Davis on August 8 to handle kicking duties for the first two preseason games against the New York Giants and another opponent, before releasing him on August 20.
Head coach Sean McDermott outlined a clear roadmap for Bass’s return. “That’s the vision for T. Bass, including today, tomorrow kicking on the side, not with the team,” McDermott said on Wednesday before the Buccaneers game. “Starting Thursday, if all goes well according to plan, he will kick with the team, and then hopefully going into the game this week.”
A Seamless Return
Bass’s comeback went exactly as planned. Against the Buccaneers, he opened the game with a kickoff that landed at the 2-yard line, resulting in a return to the 29. Later, following a one-yard touchdown rush by running back Frank Gore Jr. on the Bills’ first offensive drive, Bass stepped up for the extra-point attempt. From the left hashmark, he confidently nailed the 33-yard kick, proving his precision and readiness.
A Proven Performer
Bass, who inked a four-year, $20.4 million contract extension in 2023, has been a reliable asset for the Bills. Over his career, he boasts an 84.5 percent success rate on field goal attempts and an impressive 96.4 percent success rate on point-after-touchdown (PAT) kicks. His return is a major boost for a Bills team aiming to solidify their special teams unit ahead of the regular season.
Looking Ahead
With Bass back in action, the Bills can shift their focus to fine-tuning their roster for the 2025 season. His successful return not only alleviates concerns about his health but also reinforces his value as one of the NFL’s top kickers. As Buffalo gears up for their season opener, fans and coaches alike will be counting on Bass to deliver in high-pressure moments, just as he did against Tampa Bay.
The injury nightmare is behind him, and Tyler Bass is ready to make his mark once again.