The Buffalo Bills are bringing in Lucas Havrisik to their practice squad, setting up competition for kicker Tyler Bass. This move comes as Bass has struggled this season, missing three field goals from 40 to 49 yards and famously missing a potential game-tying kick against the Chiefs in windy conditions during the playoffs.
Despite GM Brandon Beane’s support for Bass, the team is looking at backup options. Havrisik previously played for the Rams, where he made 15 of 20 field goals but was waived just before the playoffs. He had a brief stint with the Browns but did not secure a spot on their 53-man roster.
At 25, Havrisik did not participate in Buffalo’s earlier kicker workouts, which featured Anders Carlson and Cade York. Having started his career as an undrafted free agent with the Browns, he signed with the Rams after being picked up off Cleveland’s practice squad. His performance suffered towards the end of last season, leading to his release.
Havrisik, originally from Riverside, California, has limited experience in cold weather compared to Bass, who has been the Bills’ kicker for the last five seasons after being drafted in the sixth round in 2020.
Bass signed a four-year, $20.4 million extension in 2023, with no guaranteed money beyond 2024. Although he performed well in previous seasons, making over 87% of his field goal attempts, he has faced challenges this season, including a missed kick in the wild-card win against the Steelers.
With ongoing performances this season, the Bills are preparing to make a change if necessary.
