Detroit Lions Release Kicker Just Months After Re-Signing Him


The Detroit Lions have made a surprising move just before the start of training camp by releasing kicker Michael Badgley.

This decision comes despite Badgley being re-signed by the team in March.

Badgley had a decent season with the Lions in 2022, converting 20 of 24 field-goal attempts (83.3 percent) and making all 33 of his extra-point attempts in 12 games.

He even had a perfect 4-for-4 performance on field goals in a single game against the Chicago Bears.

However, the Lions have shown confidence in their recent acquisition, Riley Patterson, who had an impressive 2022 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

With Patterson on the roster, the Lions decided to part ways with Badgley. Additionally, the team also has John Parker Romo, a former XFL kicker, who performed well earlier this year, making 17 of 19 field-goal attempts.

Despite his release, Badgley's successful track record makes him a strong candidate to be picked up by another team.

As training camps approach across the league, he is likely to seek new opportunities and may be among the top choices for workouts on the open market. Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports